John R. Lott Jr.

John R. Lott Jr. teaches criminal deterrence and law and economics at the University of Chicago. In the following viewpoint, Lott claims that defensive gun use occurs more frequently and is more effective than the media report. He argues that a criminal is less likely to attack a potential victim when he or she fears that victim might be armed. Moreover, according to Lott, statistics show that using a gun to resist an attack results in less risk of serious injury, especially for women.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Lott, what percentage of the time that people use guns defensively do the victims merely have to brandish the weapon to break off an attack?
2. What is the probability of a woman being seriously injured during an...