Adults and concealed handguns
Should adults be allowed to carry a concealed handgun?
Explanation of the Issue
The Founding Fathers; through the Bill of Rights gave American citizens the right to bear arms. However, the Bill of Rights did not mention carrying a concealed weapon. The main issue is not about the right to carry a handgun, but rather do adults have the right to carry a concealed, or hidden handgun? The issue is important because both proponents and opponents have strong arguments as to why adults should or should not have concealed handguns.
Pros
Proponents believe that American citizens have the right to bear arms as granted to them by the 2nd Amendment. They also agree that concealed handguns will deter criminals from attacking and/or exploiting people. Proponents also feel that a large majority of concealed handgun owners are law-abiding citizens who will not misuse their weapons.
Cons
Opponents believe that with an increase in gun ownership, the likelihood of gun related injuries will also increase. They also argue that if a person carries a concealed handgun, that person is more likely to use their weapon if they were to get in an arguement. Opponents central belief is that fewer handguns in our society would decrease overall gun related injuries. Both sides are passionate concerning their beliefs...which side are you on?
Yes
Carrying a concealed weapon may make you feel safer in public if there was a real threat. If Criminals try to attack you, if you had a gun you would be able to protect yourself.
Which side are you on?
A sign saying that no weapons are allowed might encourage criminals to go inside and cause trouble. Whereas a sign saying you will take action if an intruder were to come in may stop the threat before it starts.
No
Carrying a hidden handgun may cause a person to take aggressive action when it is not needed. Also, if no guns were allowed on the streets, there would be less worry of harm to the citizens.
My Opinon
Concealed handguns? Yes or no?
My opinion is that adults should not be allowed to carry a concealed, or hidden handgun. It states in the Bill of Rights (section 23) that, "Every citizen shall have the right to keep and bear arms in the lawful defense of himself or the State; but the Legislature shall have power, by law, to regulate the wearing of arms, with a view to prevent crime." Nowhere in the 2nd amendment does it say that we have the right to carry a concealed or hidden weapon. Some people will use a concealed handgun to cause acts of violence, instead of to use it for safety reasons. There is a higher likelihood of violence if any weapon is present, concealed or not. There is almost always a better way to solve problems rather than hurting someone else. Violence is never the solution.
Citations
Text:
1) http://concealedguns.procon.org
2) http://reneschofield.wordpress.com
Graphics:
1) newsbusters.org
2) www.teapartytribune.com
3) www.westernfreepress.com
1) http://concealedguns.procon.org
2) http://reneschofield.wordpress.com
Graphics:
1) newsbusters.org
2) www.teapartytribune.com
3) www.westernfreepress.com