Firearms as a symbol

[General Geoff]

The recent topic posted by bogie about how guns are not universal tools has led me to a unique conclusion: While as a mechanical object, they may not be, firearms are far more than just mechanical objects. Due to humans being social creatures who are influenced by more than just nature, but by each other and word of mouth, I raise the point that firearms carry with them an inherent message, a symbolism of sorts.

While the physical use of a firearm should be reserved for matters of life and death (target practice aside), their mere presence serves many more functions. A firearm's presence acts as a deterrent (for those who would commit evil but think twice upon glancing a citizen's openly carried sidearm), a banner (proudly affirming the firearm's owner as a freedom-loving and responsible person), a warm blanket (which comforts the carrier in dire times), and most of all, a motivator.

I say motivator, because it acts as a motivator for everyone around said firearm, in one form or another. The carrier is motivated to be calm, polite, rational, responsible, and courteous, as he/she knows that reason is the only option when lethal force otherwise negates petty fights.

Those around the carrier can be divided into two main groups. One group, who fears the sidearm, is motivated in one direction: To steer clear of the carrier, for he/she will not be easy prey. The second group understands the sidearm, what it represents, and that it helps to maintain peace while under control of a responsible person.


Now you may point out that many people who are "anti-gun" might present a third group, which is afraid of the firearm but does not wish to make the carrier a victim of any sort (except for disarming them). I would argue, however, that these people do in fact belong to the second group, but they only currently recognize law enforcement officers as rightful possessors of sidearms as yet. Our job should be to get these people to recognize all responsible citizens as keepers of the peace, especially when carrying a firearm.


These are just my observations while I'm thinking about them, still fresh in my mind.

 

[Werewolf]

It seems to me that you are agreeing with Bogie's statement and adding the qualifier that firearms are the great equalizer that places the physically weak and small on the same footing as the physically strong and large.

Now you may point out that many people who are "anti-gun" might present a third group, which is afraid of the firearm but does not wish to make the carrier a victim of any sort (except for disarming them).

I've never understood these types of people who tend to attach emotion and morality to a tool. To me they are cowards, physical and moral both, demanding they be made safe by others, using the very tools they hate.

 

[General Geoff]

Attaching emotion and morality to a tool is fine, so long as it's properly placed and directed. Guns, for me at least, carry a very calm, relaxing feeling with them, and also represent justice and righteousness to me (morality). I don't see a problem with that. Although I do see the point that a tool is not in and of itself a harbinger of said emotion/morality, and that its wielder is the determining factor of its use.