12. Guns and Weapons

Why guns should be legal:

In some countries, people are allowed to own firearms

Individuals have the right to protect themselves

People can use guns in self defence

This deters criminals

Why gun ownership should be illegal:

There is a risk of accidents with guns

The number of violent crimes increases when guns are available

Criminals may be armed

The police then need to use guns

Suicide rates have been shown to rise when guns are available

Guns create violent societies with high murder rates

Why polices should use guns

Many criminals use weapons

The threat of a gun can deter criminals

Police officers can forces a criminal to surrender

It is easier to arrest someone and avoid physical violence

The police may shoot violent criminals in self defence

They can protect the public

They can shoot an escaping criminal who poses a serious danger to the public

Why police should not carry guns

There is a risk of accidents and mistakes

The police might shoot an unarmed criminal or an innocent person

Accidents can happen in public places

There are several alternatives to guns (e.g tear gas, sprays and electric shock

weapons)

Only special police units should use guns

Arm Trade: Positives

The export of arms, or weapons, is an extremely controversial issue

Governments of rich, industrialized countries sell arms to each other

This industry creates jobs and wealth