Guns, an American Story

(3 Credits)

Guns: An American Story: Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens in the U.S., and account for more than half of all suicides. In fact, the U.S. experiences significantly higher rates of gun violence than any other developed nation, including other high-income countries. What makes guns and gun violence a distinctly American story? In this course, we review the role of the Second Amendment and explore the root causes behind the country’s exceptionally high rates. We examine how local communities, including law enforcement and community-based organizations, are addressing the crisis, and evaluate the role of state and federal policies. Is gun violence primarily a public health crisis, a political crisis, a crime crisis, or all three? Drawing on current research, we assess evidence-based interventions and discuss what works. In-person meetings with practitioners and policymakers in New York City, including police, prosecutors, and community violence intervention organizations, help us gain a better understanding of the challenges and potential solutions to this urgent issue. Students will work in groups to develop proposed solutions to one specific type of gun violence.