Research Proposal
I have chosen to research the
idea that fewer guns will lead to decreased violence. Over the last several
decades, the idea has been put forth by some groups that by reducing the
numbers of guns in circulation a corresponding reduction in violent crime will
occur. In stark contrast to this assertion are other groups who think reducing
guns available to the general public will result in no change in violent crime.
Additionally, there are groups who believe quite the opposite. They believe
that more guns in circulation and in the hands of the law abiding, results in
an actual decrease in violent crime. There is statistical evidence to indicate
such claims as the latter may have significant merit but they are hotly
contested by the other groups. I intend to show through my research, that all sides of this
debate have very solid cases on the subject. The “anti-gun” crowd seems to
have the general support of the American media which can be a very powerful
force in shaping public opinion. While it is not considered politically active,
the media nonetheless has a major influence in the political arena today. The
“pro-gun" side has the support of the NRA which is arguably the most powerful
lobby in American politics. They are powerful for two reasons. One, the right
to own guns is Constitutionally protected through the Bill of Rights and two,
the NRA has over 4 million active members.
Reducing firearm violence and regulating the availability of guns is not a new idea. Guns have been significantly regulated in this country since 1934. Since that time, thousands more laws have been passed regulating the manufacture, sale and ownership of guns. I will examine the effect that these existing laws have had on violent crime in the present and then attempt to predict what effect the passage of more laws might have on reducing violent crime.
It cannot be ignored that violent crime has been in decline for many years while gun ownership continues to rise. If taken at face value, that alone proves the pro-gun argument but there are far more details to consider in order to maintain the scientific and statistical approach to this research.
Reducing firearm violence and regulating the availability of guns is not a new idea. Guns have been significantly regulated in this country since 1934. Since that time, thousands more laws have been passed regulating the manufacture, sale and ownership of guns. I will examine the effect that these existing laws have had on violent crime in the present and then attempt to predict what effect the passage of more laws might have on reducing violent crime.
It cannot be ignored that violent crime has been in decline for many years while gun ownership continues to rise. If taken at face value, that alone proves the pro-gun argument but there are far more details to consider in order to maintain the scientific and statistical approach to this research.