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In lugnet.off-topic.debate, Daniel Jassim writes:
> It's too complicated to follow all the posts about handguns and automatic
> weapons, so I'll throw the following idea into the wind. Since America IS a
> democracy and every individual has an opinion on handguns and automatic
> weapons, why not put it to a national vote? This IS the land of one man, one
> vote after all (or one woman, one vote as well).
>
> The right to bear arms, as described in our Constitution, was created at a
> point in history when the only personal firearm was a muzzle loader (musket
> or rather large pistol). Therefore, since times and technology have changed,
> I say the right should remain but be narrowed to exclude handguns and
> automatic weapons for the simple reason (and fact) of their common use in
> thousands upon thousands of crimes, injuries and killings annually in our
> country.
>
> If it's such an important right and individual freedom in our country, all
> registered American voters deserve the chance to decide their fate as
> individuals and as a society. This is about people living and dying, often
> needlessly, clinging to a believe that deserves serious reconsideration for
> everyone's well being. I say put it to a national vote and let the people
> decide, not the politicians and especially not the lobbyists. Let democracy
> prevail on this matter, as it once did over 200 years ago.
>
> Dan
If a non-US citizen is allowed a word in this matter, I'd point out the fact
that the United States seem to be the only "stable democracy" to have such a
liberal system for gun-control.
It is scary that the 3 nations, currently not at war, with the largest ratio
of violent crimes are the USA, South Africa, and Brazil. In all three you
can easily acquire guns, both legal and illegal.
In the opposite end, Europe: heavy restrictions on weaponry, and few violent
crimes carried out with legal weapons. Most important, a lower ratio of
violent crimes *at all*.
I agree with you that the present legal system in your country has a very
defined historic background. Which *has* changed (noone there is afraid
North Korea or Lybia will try an invasion...)
That is why american people pay taxes, and support an army. Or is it not?
Vote, for your own sake.
Pedro
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Message is in Reply To:
 | | National vote on handguns?
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| It's too complicated to follow all the posts about handguns and automatic weapons, so I'll throw the following idea into the wind. Since America IS a democracy and every individual has an opinion on handguns and automatic weapons, why not put it to (...) (23 years ago, 21-Jul-01, to lugnet.off-topic.debate)
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