Government Class Debate on Second Amendment?

Question

Alright long story short Tomorrow in government class we are having a debate about the second amendment of the constitution.I have to argue anti-guns which means I must have some good reasons why guns should be done away with but I really need to know why shouldnt they so that I know how to back my answers up and my opponents questions or statements up...

Answer 1

Historial basis for 2nd Amendment is to provide for a standing militia to resist the tyranny of the established government (i.e., the British). So anytime the government tries to tell its citizens that they cannot possess guns, the gov't is committing the very reason we the people preserved that right.

Understand the nature of the Constitution. It specifically defines what powers the Federal Gov't has and was viewed by the drafters as something that should be interpreted as limiting the power of the federal gov't (remember, they had just fought a long and bloody war to send the Brits packing).

Perhaps to read the Federalist Papers by Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the Constitution.

Answer 2

It depends on the approach your opponent takes.

If they argue the legal side of it -- remember that under current law, the 2nd Amendment only applies to federal gun control regulations -- not state laws.

If they argue the rights of private ownership -- remember that under current federal law, in all but two appellate districts, the courts have rejected the "private rights" argument -- based on the "well-regulated militia" phrasing. In other words, most federal courts consider gun ownership to NOT be a personal individual right, but rather a right of the states -- and that's one reason why states are allowed to regulate firearms.

If they argue history and tradition -- then come back with the fact that the world is different now than it was a century ago. Most of the country is no longer a frontier -- and given police forces, there is less need to protect yourself from rampaging bandits or wild animals than there was a century ago.

Different argument require different responses -- think of as many as you can, so you can have at least the general framework for a response ready.

Answer 3

You have to give me THERE side of the story if im going to think of anything for your side.

Answer 4

Swords are harder to hide.
Guns can blow up.