Abiding Quote by Don Kates
“...Virtually never are murderers the ordinary, law-abiding people against whom gun bans are aimed. Almost without exception, murderers are extreme aberrants with lifelong histories of crime, substance abuse, psychopathology, mental retardation and/or irrational violence against those around them, as well as other hazardous behavior, e.g., automobile and gun accidents.”
About This Quote
Murderers are typically extreme outliers with extensive criminal and psychological issues, not ordinary citizens targeted by gun bans.
In simple terms: Murderers are abnormal, not typical law‑abiding people.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that policy should address extreme cases, not the average person.
Themes
crime
psychology
policy
public safety
Mood
serious
concerned
Type
analytical
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- law enforcement
- legislative debates
- mental health interventions
- community safety programs
Key Concepts
extremism
risk assessment
social pathology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance targeting extreme offenders with broader safety?
- What other factors contribute to gun violence?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on murderers may overlook broader gun violence factors.
