In 2016 alone, there were 385 mass shootings recorded by the Gun Violence Achieve. Without a doubt, Mass shootings cause an uproar among the public. Although there is no formal definition for a mass shooting, the one researchers follow is defined as, “having four or more victims and don't include gang killings or slayings that involve the death of multiple family members” (“Why the US Has the Most Mass Shootings”). The increase of mass shootings in the United States over the past couple of years has initiated a controversial debate concerning our second amendment right, especially when considering the frequency of these tragedies, the victims, and how the weapons are obtained. Because of these incidents, stricter gun laws should be put in place …show more content…
It can happen anywhere from movie theaters to churches to elementary schools; however, by placing stricter gun laws, the government will be able to reduce these causalities. Beginning with establishing profound background checks at gun shows and on the internet. These are two major loopholes people have been getting through for years. In addition to background checks, everyone who purchases a gun should obtain a license and be required to take a firearm safety course. Firearm safety courses have proven to be helpful in countries such as Canada and Australia. Secondly, certain firearms should be prohibited. There is no need for military-styled weapons to be in the hands of civilians. Finally, laws should be in place to prohibit anyone from intentionally purchasing a gun for a potentially dangerous person, terrorists, and those who suffer from a severe mental …show more content…
They stand for the right to, “arm themselves for hunting, self-defense, sport – or just because they want to” (“Gun Control Explained”). Let’s point out how their entertainment is more important than the, “141 children died in unintentional or accidental shootings last year” (“9 New Stats From 2016 That Help Explain Gun Violence in America”). Another commonly used argument against gun control is that guns are needed for self-defense; however, a statistic shows that guns are rarely used in self-defense. “Of the 29,618,300 violent crimes committed between 2007 and 2011, 0.79% of victims (235,700) protected themselves with a threat of use or use of a firearm” (“Gun Control”). In another analysis conducted by the FBI, which included incidents from 2000 to 2013, “only one active shooting was stopped by a concealed-carry license holder. Twenty-one were stopped by unarmed civilians.” In other words, armed civilians are less likely to stop a