A closer look at DGU numbers

Ozy

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Wednesday January 30, 2013 · 3:40 PM PST

2013/01/30 · 15:40

Like many of you, I've been watching closely the debate on gun control and the general discussion of the role guns play in our society. Inevitably in these debates, the role of 'defensive gun use' (DGU) is promoted as a net positive of gun ownership. In fact, specific studies were used in the Supreme Court decision Columbia vs. Heller, striking down the DC handgun ban, reinforcing the right to self-defense.

So, what number are we talking about? 2.5 million. That's the often quoted number of annual DGU, usually presented as is, without qualifications or error bars leading one to believe that this is an indication of lives saved, injuries avoided, or at the very least violent crimes prevented due to the presence of a gun by the potential victim.

This is a huge number. An unbelievably huge number. And yes, I find it unbelievable. Follow me below the squiggly as I attempt to sort out the various studies, claims, counter-studies and counter claims.

Ozy

Community (This content is not subject to review by Daily Kos staff prior to publication.)

Wednesday December 12, 2012 · 3:05 PM PST

2012/12/12 · 15:05

I'm a relatively new Kossak, and this is my first attempt at a diary, so I'll keep it short and sweet.

I've been a member of the internet community from the days of dial-up, occasionally finding communities in which to participate and learn from. Sometimes I wander over to see what the Red-Staters are up to, I jump in and out of some technological forums, but this is the first time I've decided to actually join a politically focused discussion group, largely motivated by the politics surrounding the recent election.

For whatever reason, I became more politically engaged over this campaign season than any other time, and I'm not actually sure why. However, this is incidental to the primary thrust of the diary...follow me below the orange squiggly...

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A closer look at DGU numbers

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