06-12-2013, 11:32 AM
(06-12-2013, 10:32 AM)Carsman Wrote: (Just got back from getting my haircut, wow it's short!)
Yes F. U. Daa, you certainly do make many good valid points, and I agree with many of them. However, it seems like for every responsible gun enthusiast such as yourself, there are unfortunately many others who are not as responsible. I don't know how the problem can be solved, seems like there is no logical fix, that would appease all.
(Fantastic Sams?
)As someone who supports strict gun control measures and enforcement that help to keep guns out of the hands of those known to be irresponsible/unqualified in the first place (and locks up those who break the laws) but does not support bans, it's sometimes frustrating to read/hear the lack of common sense by the most impassioned on both sides.
Regardless of their style in communicating points or the general intelligence of those engaged in the debate, the extremists on one side constantly accuse the extremists on the other side of being close minded. IMO, they're often both correct.
One thing that I think could help is if those on the pro-gun side would consider things like advocating the merits of 5 year olds handling guns. A lot of us middle grounders simply tune them out at that point because it's just too insulting to ones intelligence. If guns are that big a part of your life and you wanna take the risk or honestly believe that there is no risk, fine. But, suggesting that's a reasonable view that should be respected by society in general (which is the point of most public discussion/debate about controls and laws) is plain ignorant. IMO.
Likewise, those who would like to see gun bans invoked often don't really listen to good points made by pro-gun advocates regarding their desire to use guns responsibly for protection, sport, hobby, etc... and that gun control should focus on the person handling the gun, not the gun itself. Punishing the responsible law-abiding citizens for the actions of criminals is a hard pill to swallow for many. IMO, that's not an irrational stance.
Anyway, there should be way more common ground than conflict if the real agenda of those engaged in the discussion is truly considering what's best for society without infringing unnecessarily on individual rights/desires. Mostly what I see instead is "my side" agenda pushing and attempts to influence without genuine consideration of alternate view points. Rational compromise and negotiation isn't even on the menu.
That's why a lot of real discussion/debate on the subject, especially in the political arena, stalls quickly. IMO.