Skip to content

Access Quote by Josh Sugarmann

“Fear, physical pain, and death are just part of the price Americans pay for the easy access of handguns. It is estimated that the total costs to Americans of gun violence (the vast majority of which involves handguns) is measured in tens of billions of dollars.3 In comparison, the wholesale value…” quote by Josh Sugarmann
Download Open image
“Fear, physical pain, and death are just part of the price Americans pay for the easy access of handguns. It is estimated that the total costs to Americans of gun violence (the vast majority of which involves handguns) is measured in tens of billions of dollars.3 In comparison, the wholesale value of the 1.3 million handguns manufactured in America in 1998 totaled only $370 million.”

Josh Sugarmann

About This Quote

Source Report: Gun Violence Costs in the US, 1998

Gun violence imposes massive societal costs far exceeding the value of the weapons themselves.

In simple terms: Gun violence is very costly.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for stricter gun control.

Themes

public health economics policy violence costs

Mood

serious concerned

Type

policy analytical

When to use this quote

  • legislative debates
  • community health programs
  • budget planning

Key Concepts

externalities social impact risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we reduce gun‑related costs?
  • What policies balance rights and safety?
A Different Perspective

Economic arguments may not sway cultural attitudes.

2.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Josh Sugarmann

Explore all 12 Josh Sugarmann quotes

More Access quotes

Browse all 2,178 Access quotes