Murder and Gun Control

Most people incorrectly believe that murder by strangers, with robbery as a motive, poses a most serious threat in the U.S. The evidence shows that murder ranks relatively low on the list of causes of violent death and that most victims are relatives or friends of the murderer. The "mythology" of murder has caused many people to purchase arms as a means of self-defense when in fact this greatly increases the hazard to themselves and their families. The author recommends more stringent gun control legislation.