General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Jon Stewart: The NRA has us at the intersection of ‘open carry’ and ‘stand your ground’ [View all]The United States does indeed have a colorful history of men carrying side arms to protect themselves. However, this happened principally because they were living in or traveling through areas where law enforcement was weak or non-existent (i.e., the western territories, etc.).
Many courageous lawmen dedicated their lives (and in some cases, gave them) to making this country safe enough for a person to be able to travel and go into public places without the need of a side arm. This goal was eventually accomplished, and for much of the 20th century, no one thought it necessary to take a gun to go to a restaurant or to school.
Now, the NRA and its gun-loving followers have, through sheer paranoia and heavily-funded lobbyists, helped to create a society in which it is becoming increasingly dangerous to go into the public arena to do business, travel, shop, etc. We now experience mass gun murder on a weekly basis.
This cannot continue. At some point, American society will be confronted with the choice of reining in the gun lovers or facing its own extinction. I think it's pretty clear which way that decision will go.
So enjoy winning more than losing for now - the worm shall turn.