Gun Deaths and the American Paradox

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of deaths caused by car accidents in the United States has been in steep decline for years. On the other hand, the number of fatalities caused by guns – the huge majority of which are suicides, accidents and domestic violence [incidents] – continues to grow.

The Economist confirms, “This year, if the trend continues, they will overtake deaths on the roads.” This comparison could seem pointless, but firearms and cars are American national icons. The country currently has a population of roughly 320 million people and almost as many guns. Until now, all new legislation tightening the sale and carrying of weapons has failed, except for a law introduced in 1998 called the Brady Act, named for former President Reagan’s spokesperson, who was injured in an attack in 1981. However, this law does not go far enough. Moreover, lots of weapons are sold over the Internet, seemingly to people who would not be able to buy them in shops. Furthermore, there are no federal agencies concerned with the resale of weapons between individuals, except if they cross state borders. Generally, firearms are kept at home — a private space protected by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, as is the right to carry weapons under the Fourth Amendment.

Car safety has progressed, but firearm safety — the development of “smart guns” that can only be used by their owner and would allow guns to be better tracked — is not evolving. The National Rifle Association is always watching.