Are US Mass Shootings Really Due to High Levels of Gun Ownership in the US?

There is a prevalent belief that the high levels of gun ownership in the United States are the primary cause of mass shootings. However, upon closer examination, this argument needs to be critically evaluated.

Mass Shootings in 2021

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in 2021, there were 61 mass shootings in the United States, resulting in 103 deaths and 140 injured individuals. With a population of 320 million, the likelihood of being a victim of a mass shooting remains extremely low: 0.000076. This speaks to the rarity and uniqueness of such incidents.

Is It the Guns?

While the presence of guns can certainly facilitate violence, it is not the sole or even the main factor. The majority of mass shootings involve illegal weapons, often wielded by criminals. Additionally, lax laws around gun control, including the presence of 'gun-free zones' that are ineffective or poorly enforced, contribute significantly to the problem.

The connection between gun violence and mental health disorders is often overstated. Though people with psychotic disorders are indeed more likely to be victims of violence, research indicates that they are 11 times less likely to be perpetrators of violence. This misperception can lead to harmful stigmatization and discrimination.

The Role of Hollywood and Pop Culture

Another factor often pointed to is the portrayal of guns in popular media, particularly in Hollywood movies. For decades, films have glamorized and fetishized guns, contributing to a culture of glorification that may desensitize the public to the realities of gun violence. This could be part of the broader American phenomenon of glorifying fame and popularity, often exacerbated by social media.

Historical Context and Cultural Practices

The idea that gun violence is inherently American is challenged by the historical and cultural context. Growing up in the 1950s, for example, when guns were not as prevalent, children engaged in 'cop and robber' and 'cowboy and Indian' games. These were not mere fantasies but reflected real-life practices that did not result in violence. In fact, the presence of guns in childhood role-playing can be neither inherently positive nor negative, and should be understood in the context of the overall environment and societal norms.

Similarly, cultural icons like Elvis Presley and heavy metal music have been scapegoated for causing juvenile delinquency, a notion that has been debunked by research. While media undoubtedly plays a role, it is one of many factors, and its impact should be considered alongside societal, economic, and political conditions that foster violence.

Securing Our Schools

Some argue that the high incidence of school shootings in the United States is unique. However, the issue does not stem from a lack of exposure to violence. Instead, it reflects the cultural phenomenon of idolizing fame and the exacerbating effect of social media. Recognizing and addressing these underlying issues is crucial.

Immediate steps include ensuring that schools are adequately protected. Deploying trained armed guards and securing entry to school buildings can significantly reduce the risk of violence. Rather than glorifying the shooters, media should avoid making them famous, which can perpetuate a cycle of violence and desensitization.

Conclusion

The debate around gun ownership and mass shootings in the US is complex and multifaceted. While guns can facilitate violence, the primary factors driving such incidents are more deeply rooted in societal norms and cultural practices. Addressing these root causes requires a comprehensive understanding and a thoughtful approach to policy and cultural change.