Fu Qi Zhang Cen Peer Review

Gun control is a significant issue, and many different views are taken towards it. In a world where people can access guns with little or no explicit checks, the topic of gun control has taken increased significance. The discussion around the capacity of higher gun control levels to reduce gun violence is much discussed. A key point supporting more gun control is that it can reduce gun-related violence. This means implementing tougher guidelines, such as increased background checks, mandated safety classes, and longer waiting periods for gun purchases, to make it more difficult for individuals to access weapons. Furthermore, “red flag” laws may be used to take away guns from potentially dangerous people. All these strategies could likely reduce gun violence. This essay will take an in-depth look at this question, mulling the proofs on both sides and reaching the conclusion that increased gun control measures to curb gun violence.

Research from across the United States confirms that greater gun control reduces firearm-related homicides. According to the article “gun violence” by Susan Ladika, “John Gunn, assistant professor of psychology at Gwynedd Mercy University in Pennsylvania, who worked with the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center at Rutgers University, found that states with the most gun control laws have lower homicide and suicide rates than those with fewer laws.” (Ladika, footnote 35). The evidence found in states with tougher gun regulations demonstrates that firmer gun control measures are correlated with fewer deadly shootings. This evidence offers clear proof that enacting further gun control leads to fewer gun-related deaths.

It is suggested that by implementing more solid gun control, mass shootings can be minimized. According to the article “gun violence” by Susan Ladika, “We have found that when large capacity mags are regulated, you get drastic drops in both the incidence of gun massacres and the fatality rate of gun massacres,” Columbia professor Klarevas said.” (Ladika, footnote 40).  In recent years these shootings have been happening more often and are a major concern to many citizens. If access to guns is limited, it will be more difficult to carry out mass shootings. Background checks, mandatory waiting periods, and other regulations can be put into place to restrain individuals from obtaining guns for harmful purposes.

Conversely, those who oppose increased gun control measures suggest that it is not a solution to criminal activity involving firearms. They argue that while gun laws may prevent law-abiding citizens from access, criminals will still find ways to procure firearms. According to the article “gun violence” by Susan Ladika, “The lack of serial numbers makes it extremely difficult for law enforcement officers to trace ghost guns back to their purchasers if they are found at crime scenes.” (Ladika, footnote 14). It is valid to state that as underground markets and a black market exist, strict regulations may not hinder the acquisition of firearms. This evidence shows that it may not be as successful as intended gun control to stop criminals from accessing firearms. This indicates that gun control might not completely block criminals from procuring guns.

Overall, this essay has explored the issue of increased gun control standards to reduce gun violence. All evidence gathered demonstrates that more regulations on access to firearms will decrease gun-related events. Research from states with stringent gun control laws demonstrates that when tough regulations are placed, homicides drop drastically. Also, the information collected proposes that with better policies, mass shootings can be reduced. While some suggest that criminals may still find ways to obtain firearms, regulations will make it more difficult and cut down on the number of gun deaths. Taking these facts into consideration, it is clear that the implementation of higher gun control standards can be beneficial to the public’s safety. This topic is especially relevant given the heightened levels of violence seen in society, making it critical that measures are taken to protect the people.