Curious Incidents of a Flailing Mermaid

Day 18

Phew... its 2am. I've been up since 6am and have driven 360 miles. I am tired. Yet here is my blog - dedication.

Apologies for lack of formatting

Prompt for July 18, 2013

Gun control: What side are you on? Are you even on a side? State your position.


My perspective this week is a decidedly English one. in contrast to America, guns are (thankfully) not very used and widely owned, partly in response to tragic school shootings in Dunblane, Scotland, and 'one off' incidents where individuals have misused guns. I dislike guns, and hope we continue to keep tight control over their use and ownership. Though this is a purely personal view with which many of you may disagree, I find the notion of a 'right' to gun ownership a strange one, as to my mind, it brings with it a threat and a corresponding infringement on others that said gun may be used against. Further, I believe the state (read Government) has the duty to protect individuals via the police and legal system..so why would I need to carry a gun. I recognise that there are legitimate purposes for which guns may be used including the management of the country side, but believe that the UK is a better place for stringent gun controls. In the rare instances where we do see armed policemen on our streets and in other areas like airports, I find it an intimidating, rather than comforting site. Though many others may disagree, I believe widespread gun ownership has no legitimate place in a peaceful society and thus strict gun controls should be supported.