Amendment Quote by John R. Lott Jr
““There is a clear consensus among economists about self-defense, gun-free zones, firearms and suicide, and concealed handgun laws. Among North American economists: •Eighty-eight percent say that guns are more frequently “used in self-defense than they are used in the commission of crime.” •Ninety-one percent believe that gun-free zones are “more likely to attract criminals than they are to deter them.” •Seventy-two percent do not agree that “a gun in the home causes an increase in the risk of suicide.” •Ninety-one percent say that “concealed handgun permit holders are much more law-abiding than the typical American.” •Eighty-one percent say that permitted concealed handguns lower the murder rate.””
About This Quote
Source Report: Survey of North American Economists, 2023
Economists largely agree that guns are used more for self‑defense, that gun‑free zones attract crime, that household guns don’t raise suicide risk, that concealed‑carry holders are law‑abiding, and that concealed carry reduces murders.
In simple terms: Economists see guns as more defensive than criminal and think concealed carry helps safety.
Key Takeaway
Consider the data when debating gun policy.
Themes
gun policy
economics
public safety
crime prevention
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
informative
policy‑oriented
When to use this quote
- legislative hearings
- media commentary
- academic research
- public debates
Key Concepts
self‑defense
statistical consensus
risk perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do these findings align with your community’s experience?
- What policies could reconcile safety with rights?
A Different Perspective
Surveys reflect expert opinion but may not capture all real‑world complexities.
