Gun Control (Issue and Debate)

Discusses the explosive issue of gun control in America, examining such issues as the Constitution's guarantee of the right to bear arms and the need to remove guns from the hands of criminals and others who abuse or tragically misuse them.

A well-organized, balanced account of the major issues related to government control of guns, with all the players--the NRA, police departments, victims' organizations--given a fair hearing. Using specific cases, Gottfried covers constitutional and legal issues (the meaning of the Second Amendment's ``well- regulated militia''), social issues (women arming themselves against rape), and questions of effectiveness (will banning guns make it harder for criminals to obtain weapons, or render victims helpless?). An imagined, all-too-realistic conversation among ten teenagers of various backgrounds makes a potent demonstration of people talking past one another, rather than seriously debating the issues. An exceptionally well-integrated overview. Excellent documentation: end notes, chronology, recommended reading, organizations to contact; index. B&w photos. (Nonfiction. 12+) -- Copyright ©1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.