(Cut up and use with Taboos and Issues no.

17)

Should gun ownership be made illegal?

In the year 1774 an amendment was made to the

Constitution of the United States of America
guaranteeing citizens the right to bare arms. Today
there are over 200,000,000 guns in circulation but
the tide of opinion is changing with many people
believing that the American gun laws are
antiquated and in need of reform.

I believe that the United States would greatly

benefit from outlawing private gun ownership.

The first benefit of making guns illegal is that the

number of accidental shootings would decrease.

In 2002, a national survey reported that 776

American citizens died as a result of the accidental
discharge of a firearm.

Furthermore, in homes where there are young

children this issue gains particular relevance as a
child who is not aware of the dangers of a firearm
may be placed in a vulnerable position.

Another benefit of making guns illegal is that the

streets would be safer.

Statistics show that the occurrence of violent

crime is much lower in countries that do not allow
citizens to carry weapons.

Additionally, if street gangs cannot carry guns then

acts of gang violence which currently put the
general public at risk, such as drive-by shootings,
would greatly decrease.

On the other hand, some people say they feel safer

having a gun at home.

However, if guns were more difficult to own, fewer

criminals would have them. Fewer guns would lead
to a decrease in the number of gun-related crimes
and victims.

In conclusion, the U.S.A would greatly benefit from

outlawing private gun ownership.

The most notable benefits would be the reduction

in accidental shootings and the improved safety of
American streets.

Thus, it is time for the United States to take a

close look at its antiquated gun laws and make
some changes for the safety of its citizens.