Fireside Topic: What are your thoughts on the Second Amendment and Firearms?

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” – Fourth Article and Second Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America

Few topics in the past decade have been as heated and divisive as that of the Second Amendment, firearm rights, and the purpose of firearms in a modern “civilized” society. It seems that this discussion is also taking place during a time of greater ignorance around the subject at hand. Compared to just a generation or two ago, Americans have fewer firearms around the house and much less experience overall. A Gallup Poll shows ownership dropping from around 50% in the 1970s to just over 30% now.

A man ought not take a stand on an issue until he becomes knowledgeable about that issue. That being the case, here are some questions to ask amongst each other that may help you or others become better equipped to take part in the debate:

• What does the Second Amendment seem to say?
• What was the context in which it was written?
• Is that context, or purpose, still valid today?
• Why or why not?
• What then is the responsibility for every American regarding firearms?
• What types of firearms, if any, should be limited?
• Are your thoughts formed out of experience or emotion?
• How can your develop more experience with firearms?

- Fireside Topic articles are interesting topics to get men talking. Find a few friends and throw a question out there and see what develops. Read more here. -