Preventing Mass Shootings (Essay Sample)

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Preventing Mass Shootings
Introduction
Mass shooting is a global phenomenon which does not cease to frighten people around the world. However, mass shootings in the United States have become a very common occurrence which leaves many dead and others injured. In fact, since the year 2006 there has been approximately 200 mass shooting incidences in the United States (Overberg et al.). According to the level of damage these mass shootings have left behind, it is very necessary to develop strategies with the aim to prevent them. The objective of this essay is to discuss the means which mass shootings can be prevented.
Gun Control
There are various reasons for mass shootings which stem from family, relationships, or financial disputes. Nevertheless, firearms are the weapons of choice in the execution of these events. Solving social matters is quite a complicated option to preventing mass shootings therefore taking away the weapon can definitely make a difference. The United States population owns more guns compared to any other country on earth (Knoll). Adversely, gun related deaths are number eight as the leading cause of death in the United States (Overberg et al.). Therefore, controlling the access and ownership of firearms is the best way to control these devastating incidents. Stricter gun control laws ensure that not just any particular individual can access firearms. Philosophically speaking, the government has the obligation to provide basic necessities such as food and security for its citizens. Consequently, to ensure security, the government has to have a firm understanding regarding the number of weapons which are in the country and who has the weapons. Despite the possibilities which the black market provides, majority of guns are legally purchased (Knoll). But the problem is that US gun control laws are too lenient on the requirements which individuals need to provide before buying the guns.
Banning Guns
Based on the level of occurrence and impact of mass shootings, banning all guns expect those used by the military is another option. This is quite a radical option but too many innocent lives are being taken by mass shooting incidences. According to a report from USA Today, mass shootings in the United States happen quite often since such occurrences take place on a biweekly basis (Overberg et al.). Even though there is a 1% chance of mass shooting taking place in a given region, the outcomes are devastating (Overberg et al.). Banning all guns will definitely lower this incident rate across the country. Currently, there are limited reasons as to why American citizens need to own guns. In fact, the biggest reason for gun ownership is self protection (Knoll). This however does not justify having guns in the hands of individual citizens. The American law enforcement body is quite competent on its own when it comes to handling crime in the country. Furthermore, there are no compelling statistics which indicate that guns actually make life in the country safer. While banning guns is an unlikely occurrence, the outcomes of this action are quite beneficial in regard to reducing the incident rates of mass shootings. Eventually, American citizens and law makers have to go back to why the constitution allowed the ownership of firearms. Times have changed and much development has taken place to necessitate modification of gun ownership laws.
Impact of Media and Socialization
Eventually, adults have a huge responsibility in creating a peaceful nation. Eventually, preventing mass shootings boils down to making sure the younger generations are being socialized to becoming competent social beings. The media has a huge role to play in the way younger generations perceive violence. For instance, violence and the glorification of weapons on television and video games should be banned. This is an extreme action but so are the mass shootings. Furthermore, parents have a huge obligation to ensure that their children are developing socially in the most optimal fashion.
Opposition
There are individuals who firmly believe that there a...