Locked, loaded and ready to learn

I understand and support the intent of the second amendment, but something about a pistol strapped to a classmate’s thigh just doesn’t seem right.

In Texas, legislation has been introduced that would permit the concealed carrying of weapons at university campuses. While many remain skeptical, supporters insist the bill would protect the constitutional rights of those licensed to carry guns, possibly preventing campus massacres.

With responsible students, armed, reckless, wanton killers could be stopped.

I’ll admit this logic is sound. Seemingly, the only way to stop a crazy person with a gun is with another gun.

But I’m still wondering why this bill – which so powerfully affects students who live in a communal society characterized by close proximity and necessary limitation for the common good – was even introduced.

In my dorm room, I don’t even have the right to a candle, waterbed or certain kitchen appliances. Concealed firearms seem much more dangerous than a toaster.

Indeed, they are. About 100,000 people are injured by accidental gunshots each year.
The close quarters in the residence halls are not a place to bring an object that could accidentally shoot a high-speed projectile.

Accidents happen (the guys across the hall left shrimp in their unplugged refrigerator over spring break). But a gun mishap doesn’t just lead to an overwhelming, vomit-inducing stench. People die.

The only weaponry I’m comfortable with on campus is that made by the fine people at Nerf.

Don’t get me wrong, the right to keep and bear arms is important. It implies the freedom of self-defense and guarantees the fullest degree of independence. Private gun ownership has become an institution in American society. And with all the guns that are out there, comprehensive, all-encompassing firearm disarmament might prove impossible.

It would be wrong not to acknowledge that guns are used for self-defense on a regular basis, protecting individuals from violent attackers.

Rapes have been stopped and armed robbers deterred by gun-wielding citizens. Guns are simply tools – granted, they’re killing tools – used at the discretion of the one behind the trigger, accomplishing good or bad results.

Gun ownership rights must be protected, but they most certainly need not be expanded to college campuses. There are just certain places where concealed carry doesn’t make sense, schools ranking high among them. Safety is a fundamental assumption of the educational process. Academic exchange occurs best in a trusting, secure environment, where fear of physical harm can be forgotten – so that fear of flunking can take hold.

In a university setting, where roommates and friends are in and out of bedrooms, where personal property is difficult to secure (people have even asked to share my toothbrush) and where lines in the food court can make you go crazy, firearms should not be added to the mix.

The only people that should pack heat on this campus are the silent guardians and watchful protectors of the IU Police Department.