Why Do Americans Carry Guns? A British Perspective

I have traveled to the United States four times, and in those trips, I have witnessed incidents involving guns used by criminals in two robberies and a fatal shooting. Contrast that with my decades of living in the UK, where the only gun-related incidents I have experienced were in my time in the Royal Navy. Even in my years living in London, I have a hard time remembering any gun-related incidents within a mile of my home. This difference in my experiences reflects a stark divergence in the attitudes and experiences of people in the UK and the US regarding gun possession and public safety.

American Beliefs and the NRA

Yes, there is a significant belief in the US, perpetuated largely by the National Rifle Association and other gun pressure groups, that owning a gun will protect one from sudden, unseen attacks. However, I must say that I think Americans are being overly skeptical of this claim. The belief in this kind of protection is misguided and dangerous. For instance, it is more likely that a gun under a pillow in your home could accidentally harm a child or a family member who wanders in unexpectedly.

Open Carry Laws and Public Safety

After open carry laws were enacted in Texas, many Americans felt it was a sign of manliness to walk around with loaded rifles and bandoleers full of bullets in public areas, reminiscent of the iconic showman Sylvester Stallone's character in First Blood. However, this behavior is incredibly unsafe and foolish. These public displays can lead to accidents and misunderstandings that escalate into dangerous situations. For instance, carrying a loaded rifle in a fast food restaurant poses a serious risk to public safety and should be avoided.

The Second Amendment and Modern Relevance

The Second Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the right to bear arms, was primarily designed to ensure the new nation could defend itself from further attacks by the British Empire. However, after 240 years of that defense being unnecessary, the need for widespread gun ownership has diminished significantly. With the US having the capability to destroy the entire planet multiple times over, the trillions of dollars spent on defense far surpass the amount spent on firearms for civilian use.

Combating Gun Ownership Through Militia Service

To reduce gun ownership, one potential solution could be to force those who own guns to participate in a militia system and send them to harsh, arctic-like locations for a few weeks of training. This would significantly reduce the number of individuals who feel they need to own firearms. This idea might especially resonate with the wealthy and middle-class individuals who are reluctant to serve their country beyond the obligation of military service.

Conclusion: The Duality of American and British Attitudes

Although Americans are not inherently stupid, the love affair with guns can sometimes lead to behaviors and beliefs that are misguided. The rest of the world often looks on in amazement at these impulses, which appear to be a unique aspect of American culture. Ultimately, it is important to reassess the role of guns in modern society and find safer, more sustainable solutions to ensure public safety and individual security.