Written by Student Associate Hailey Willerth
How Should We Prevent Mass Shootings in Our Communities?
Mass shootings have devastating effects on communities. Much of the discussion surrounding this topic is often polarized and charged with emotion, making it difficult to come to a solution. Even with this framework for deliberation, the guide warns that discussion will not be easy.
So, how should we prevent mass shootings in our communities? The resource provides three options.
The problem is that we are too vulnerable to violence
- Example Action: Restrict assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and armor-piercing ammunition
- Primary Drawback: We would give the government extraordinary control over cherished freedom
The problem is that most people are unable to defend themselves against sudden danger from violence
- Example Action: Require all jurisdictions to allow law-abiding citizens to carry concealed firearms, and greatly expand training for self-defense
- Primary Drawback: The proliferation of firearms and armed guards in public spaces would create the atmosphere of a police state and would significantly change US society
The problem is that we live in a culture that perpetuates violence and numbs people to its effects
- Example Action: News media should reduce coverage of mass shootings so that killers are not guaranteed fame and notoriety
- Primary Drawback: In many cases, this would limit what we can say and do
In 2016, The National Issues Forum (NIF) and the Kettering Foundation published an issue guide to help facilitate deliberation about mass shootings. The Kettering Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps write issue guides for NIF and researches how citizens can address the problems affecting their communities.