Gun Control

Gun Control: A Question of Restriction

Michael Jackson Jr.

PHI 103 – Informal Logic

Dr. Barri Mallin

November 26, 2012

Gun Control: A Question of Restriction

No two words have ignited such a firestorm of controversy, and divided an entire country like the words “Gun Control”. The second amendment of the United States Constitution reads, "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed" (as stated, U.S. Constitution). This amendment has been the centerpiece of debate in the United States, to include numerous Supreme Court cases since its passage, and continues to drive the debate on gun control presently. Only one other citizen's right is debated as much or as intensely, the right to free speech. That being said, the second amendment right to keep and bear arms is as important as the first amendment right of free speech. As such, the right to keep and bear arms should be protected at all costs. Gun ownership should only be restricted in very specific cases; the establishment of new gun control laws should be limited, and current laws and regulations enforced.

Imagine for a moment, being awakened by the sound of movement at the front door of your house. The doorknob turns slightly, and then clicks back and forth. Being locked, it gives you the needed time to wake your spouse, shuffle her into the closet, and attempt to get to the other end of your house to ensure that your children are hidden and safe. It is in this moment that you hear the incomparable sound of the front door being kicked in, burglars entering at a swift pace, intent on robbing you and your family of your valuables. It is at this moment that you hear the sound of a shotgun being cocked as the burglars move over the threshold of the door. Imagine if you will, the paralyzing fear you feel as you realize that you have no way to protect yourself against an armed intruder, and then...