The idea of addressing "gun violence" as a public health problem persists among a number of scientists whom I think should know better: many of my fellow physicians, led by some of our specialty organizations. Guns are not pathogens—it is how they are used that matters. Epidemics are not characterized by gradual steady declines in morbidity and mortality, as homicides and violent crime have shown, accompanied by dramatic increases in gun ownership for 20 years. (more…)

A lot of people are of the opinion that everyone should have the right to protect themselves against harm. You might even think a weapon is the best way to protect yourself. Whether that's with a knife, a gun, or just physical force, no one should be hurt or killed because they aren't able to fight back with the necessary force. Dr. Brown, my colleague at DRGO, really got me thinking with his recent essay on The Ethics of Armed Self-Defense. Apparently, other people have been thinking...