Why We Are Losing the War on Gun Violence in the United States

We are losing the war on gun violence in America due to restrictions on research funding, entrenched historical perspectives, structural violence, and differing priorities or views on what is right or wrong. This edited collection of data and perspectives takes a fresh approach to gun violence prevention by examining the challenges that have thwarted progress and highlighting possible strategies for saving lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2020
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Gun violence is a pressing public health crisis that has been hindered by political polarization, inadequate research funding, and entrenched historical perspectives. Despite successes and failures in prevention efforts, the United States continues to experience high rates of gun violence, which disproportionately affects marginalized communities. This edited collection of data and perspectives takes a fresh approach to understanding the complex issue of gun violence prevention.

The book explores why the United States is losing the war on gun violence, examining factors such as restrictions on research funding, historical perspectives, structural violence, and differing priorities. The authors write candidly about the challenges that have thwarted gun violence prevention, including the influence of the gun lobby, political polarization, and the lack of consensus on effective policies.

The chapters in the book cover critical areas such as gun violence, structural violence, and social justice. They address school shootings, mental illness and gun violence, the political divide in gun policy support, the Second Amendment, and the impact of policy and law enforcement strategies on reducing gun violence. The editors and authors hope to bridge the growing gap between groups or ideologies and create common ground for discussing workable solutions.

The book is essential reading for a broad audience, including practitioners, academics, researchers, students, policy-makers, and other professionals in public health, behavioral sciences, social sciences, health sciences, public policy, political science, and law. It provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of gun violence prevention and offers potential strategies for progress.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the need for comprehensive gun violence prevention strategies that address the root causes of gun violence. This includes addressing mental health issues, improving access to education and job training, and addressing social and economic inequalities that contribute to gun violence. The authors argue that reducing gun violence requires a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between policymakers, community organizations, and the public.

Another important theme is the role of policy and law enforcement in preventing gun violence. The book highlights the need for effective policies that restrict access to firearms, promote responsible gun ownership, and address the root causes of gun violence. It also emphasizes the importance of law enforcement agencies implementing evidence-based practices and working closely with community organizations to prevent gun violence.

The book also explores the impact of structural violence on gun violence prevention efforts. Structural violence refers to the systemic inequalities and discrimination that perpetuate violence and harm in society. The authors argue that addressing structural violence is essential for reducing gun violence, as it addresses the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to gun violence.

The chapters on school shootings provide valuable insights into the challenges of creating safer schools. The authors discuss the need for comprehensive school safety policies that include measures such as metal detectors, armed security personnel, and counseling services. They also emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of school violence, such as bullying, mental health issues, and access to firearms.

Mental illness and gun violence are also critical areas explored in the book. The authors argue that mental illness is a significant risk factor for gun violence and that effective treatment and support can help prevent shootings. They also highlight the need for better screening and treatment of mental illness, as well as the importance of addressing the stigma associated with mental illness.

Understanding the political divide in gun policy support is another important theme in the book. The authors argue that the political polarization surrounding gun violence prevention has hindered progress and that finding common ground is essential for reducing gun violence. They discuss the need for bipartisan collaboration and the importance of engaging with communities that have different perspectives on gun violence prevention.

The Second Amendment and the War on Guns is a controversial topic that is explored in the book. The authors argue that the Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms, but that it does not necessarily mean that firearms should be unrestricted. They discuss the need for reasonable regulations that balance the right to bear arms with public safety.

The Impact of Policy and Law Enforcement Strategies on Reducing Gun Violence in America is a critical chapter that provides an overview of the evidence-based practices that have been effective in reducing gun violence. The authors discuss the importance of implementing evidence-based policies, such as universal background checks, safe storage laws, and restrictions on assault weapons. They also emphasize the importance of law enforcement agencies implementing effective strategies, such as community policing, targeted enforcement, and violence prevention programs.

Youth Gun Violence Prevention Organizing is a critical topic that is explored in the book. The authors argue that youth gun violence prevention is essential for reducing gun violence in the long term. They discuss the need for effective youth-focused programs that address the root causes of gun violence, such as bullying, mental health issues, and access to firearms. They also emphasize the importance of engaging with young people and providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive.

Smart Guns Don't Kill People is a controversial topic that is explored in the book. The authors argue that smart guns, which are designed to prevent unauthorized use, can be a valuable tool in reducing gun violence. They discuss the potential benefits of smart guns, such as reducing accidental shootings and providing an additional layer of protection for gun owners. They also discuss the challenges of implementing smart guns, such as the need for technological advancements and the potential for misuse.

In conclusion, Why We Are Losing the War on Gun Violence in the United States is a comprehensive and essential reading for a broad audience interested in reducing gun violence in America. The book provides valuable insights into the complex issue of gun violence prevention and offers potential strategies for progress. By addressing the root causes of gun violence, promoting comprehensive gun violence prevention strategies, and engaging with communities that have different perspectives, we can work towards a safer and more peaceful society.

Weight: 708g
Dimension: 159 x 242 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030555122
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021