Fear in the Future: America and Guns

My history teacher Mr. Bolos presented a provocative idea about America and the fear of the future and the unknown during class this past week. A hot issue in America over the last year has been gun control, after numerous mass murderers have killed innocent civilians at schools and movie theaters (to name a few). There have been talks about stricter gun control laws in the wake of these shootings, and I believe this is attributed to a fear in America about future incidents of that magnitude.

A family mourns for victims of the Sandy Hook shooting

In reading an article by Sam Harris of The Week, he explained why he owns guns in his home and has trains "with them regularly". He further explains how while dialing 911 for the police is a legitimate mean of protection, if someone intrudes your house with the intent of harming you or your family, there is simply no plausible way for the police to arrive in time.

There is definitely some fear in the future and America in why Sam Harris has guns in his house. Also fear for the safety of his daughter in preschool. I can respect why Mr. Harris feels more comfortable in holding firearms in his household, but lost in all of the fear of mass murderers is the real reason why guns are legal in America to begin with.

It is the fear of the government holding too much power over its people. Even if Americans do not have to use their guns, the government will respect the fact that a revolt would be plausible if its people can own guns. If no guns for the people, the government would have nothing to fear.

Looking ahead, Americans have a lot to be afraid of, and so does our world as a whole. Fear is integral in a changing society however, because without it, one has no motivation to move forward and make the necessary changes.

What is your take on America and the fear of the future/unknown? Should gun laws be changed, and why would your changes be effective?