John Lee still has his life and four children still have a father because Mr. Lee had a handgun when three criminals tried to kill him and take his money.

When John Q. Citizen takes out a gun and the criminals flee, reporters don’t consider the incident “news” (at least when there are no injuries)–so guns are typically on the evening news when they are used by criminals. As a result of that skewed coverage, it is no wonder that many people have a negative view about firearms.


On June 17, Cato will be hosting a forum about guns, crime, and self‐​defense. Speakers include John Lott, Jeff Snyder, and Paul Helmke of the Brady Campaign.


For related Cato scholarship, go here.