Gun Policy: A New Framework

In many respects, the intractable nature of the modern gun debate, where two implacable sides fail to accept the legitimacy of the opposing side, resembles relations among nations that share similar antipathies. The purpose of this chapter is to apply elements of international relations theory to propose a new way of thinking about the domestic gun dispute, and to provide a possible route to breaking the policy impasse. Rather than pursuing an untrammeled domestic arms race, on the one hand, or disarmament on the other, an arms control strategy arising from the “security dilemma” often faced by opposing nations suggests a route to a middle ground that could address the core concerns of both sides. The role of federalism and its impact on gun policy is also examined.