Why Do Conservatives Often Say Guns Aren't Used to Kill People?

The assertion that guns are not inherently designed to kill is a topic frequently discussed in the political arena, with conservatives often highlighting the role of firearms in personal and societal protection, rather than for killing.

In reality, guns are versatile tools designed primarily for personal and societal protection, not just in lethal situations but in a broader context where the primary goal may be deterrence. The phrase 'seeing a gun' can often prevent violent situations from escalating. For instance, a visible firearm can serve as a deterrent against would-be attackers, potentially averting a confrontation altogether.

Non-Lethal Deterrence Through Gun Presence

Consider scenarios where a gun may be used to defuse a situation rather than to kill. A warning shot or the mere display of a firearm can sometimes scare away threatening individuals or groups. This approach is analogous to how world leaders might wield nuclear capabilities as a deterrent without intending to use them. The potential for action often serves as a more effective deterrent than the actual use of force.

Take the example of facing a wild animal: running away might increase the risk of being mauled, while curling into a ball may provoke further aggression, or it might attract another target. However, making yourself appear more daunting typically encourages the animal to flee. In similar situations involving humans, a visible gun can often enforce the message that potential confrontations should be avoided.

Dissecting Gun Usage and Purpose

Conservatives often point out that guns are not exclusively lethal instruments. They argue that the phrase 'guns don’t kill people; people do' highlights that guns are tools requiring human intent to cause harm. Statistics back this up, with most gun-related deaths attributed to justified uses by law enforcement, soldiers, and individuals protecting themselves or others, rather than lack of intent or accidental use.

Many guns, especially those designed for target shooting or hunting, serve multiple purposes, such as recreational hunting or sport shooting. These activities involve millions of cartridges fired annually without resulting in death. The primary purposes of guns—self-defense and recreation—are paramount and often overshadowed in discussions about lethal incidents.

Guns as Tools, Not Weapons

It is important to recognize that like any tool, a firearm's purpose and usage can vary widely. Just as knives, explosives, vehicles, bats, and ropes can be used in ways that go beyond their intended design, guns can also be used in ways not anticipated by their creators. However, it is not the tool itself that poses the threat but rather the actions of the person using the tool. Physical objects cannot initiate actions or harm on their own; intent and human agency are the key factors in determining the outcome.

Advocating for a responsible approach to firearms ensures that they are used for their intended purposes—protection and recreation—while minimizing the risk of unintended harm. Society benefits from a nuanced understanding of the role guns play in daily life, beyond the mere capacity to kill.