I was at the bookstore this weekend, and I noticed a book in the True Crime section titled 'More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws'. I am by no means an expert on the topic of gun control, but I've given it at least five minutes of intense thought, so I'll give my half-cocked (pun intended) opinion.

By nature, I am a libertarian. I believe people should be allowed to do what they want, when they want, as long as it doesn't interfere with another individual's freedom to do the same. Rather simplified, but you get the gist. I fully support any individuals right to own any type of firearm, from pistol to bazooka, but I understand both sides of the gun control argument.

I've read about the city of Kennesaw, GA, which in 1982 unanimously passed a law requiring all heads of household to own at least one firearm. Their crime rates have dropped drastically. The basic premise of 'right to carry' advocates is 'if we take away the right to own a firearm, only the criminals will have firearms'. This argument makes sense, in theory. However, I think this solution and example will only work in a small town like Kennesaw.

Here's my problem, on a practical level: I'm not a gun guy. If the laws on gun ownership became less strict, I still wouldn't purchase a firearm. It's just not my thing. Most people who live in cities or suburbs (with a few exceptions I'm sure) feel the same way. That's why most gun control advocates reside in major metropolises. Most people who haven't handled a firearm can't imagine handling a firearm. 

Assuming the majority people in cities who want guns are criminals, it makes sense to have stricter gun laws in major cities. Leave the small towns the ability to adopt less strict laws, which fit with the community cultural standards. It seems to me that stricter laws in cities will reduce crime (using the UK as an example), while lax laws in small towns would reduce crime (Kennesaw being the model here).

Although I fully support a person's right to own a firearm, it seems that it is a complicated and intense topic for the majority of Americans. Because of this, I suggest a compromise. Thoughts?

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