Gun Control: A Featured Controversy from Issues & Controversies

Featured in Issues & Controversies:
GUN CONTROL: Should the United States Adopt Stronger Gun Control Laws?

Should the United States adopt stronger gun control laws? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies’ complete and unbiased coverage of this divisive issue. Here is a sample of the pro/con arguments on both sides of the issue.

SUPPORTERS ARGUE
The widespread availability of firearms has made it easier for criminals and people with mental illness to perpetrate mass shootings. The government can reduce shooting deaths by imposing common-sense restrictions on guns that do not violate the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Arming more people will not reduce gun violence.

OPPONENTS ARGUE
The vast majority of gun owners in the United States are law-abiding citizens who buy guns for sport or protection. Curtailing the right to bear arms violates the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Strictly regulating gun ownership will only benefit criminals by disarming those who could otherwise defend themselves and save others.

The pro/con article links to rich related resources that enhance the debate. Students and researchers can explore the “By the Numbers” data, primary sources that provide context, court cases, debate videos, NPR podcasts, infographics, editorials, a Reuters® newsfeed, a chronology, and a bibliography and further resources. Plus, discussion questions are provided to inspire critical thinking and analysis.

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Issues & Controversies is a multimedia solution that helps students understand contemporary issues, assess different perspectives, distinguish fact from opinion, reach their own conclusions, and build critical thinking and writing skills. It features balanced pro/con articles and primary sources for current events, civics instruction, and class discussion.