Investigating Moral Conflict in the Gun Debate: A Phenomenology of Gun Ownership
Advisor Information
Shereen Bingham
Location
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
7-3-2014 11:30 AM
End Date
7-3-2014 11:45 AM
Abstract
This phenomenological research examined meaning attached to gun ownership. The purpose of the research was to provide a voice to gun owners so that the essence of gun ownership is understood. Three white, male, Mid-western gun owners participated in interviews and an analysis was carried out using the phenomenological method of Moustakas (1994). Five themes were identified: (1) gun ownership is a positive experience, (2) gun owners are misunderstood, (3) responsibility is fundamental, (4) gun ownership is influenced by history and politics and (5) views about gun control are complicated and sometimes contradictory. The essence of gun ownership consisted of a strong affirmative image, comfort with traditions and values represented and a strong sense of responsibility. It is hoped that a more complete understanding of the meaning of gun ownership will serve to help resolve the moral conflict surrounding the gun debate.
Investigating Moral Conflict in the Gun Debate: A Phenomenology of Gun Ownership
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
This phenomenological research examined meaning attached to gun ownership. The purpose of the research was to provide a voice to gun owners so that the essence of gun ownership is understood. Three white, male, Mid-western gun owners participated in interviews and an analysis was carried out using the phenomenological method of Moustakas (1994). Five themes were identified: (1) gun ownership is a positive experience, (2) gun owners are misunderstood, (3) responsibility is fundamental, (4) gun ownership is influenced by history and politics and (5) views about gun control are complicated and sometimes contradictory. The essence of gun ownership consisted of a strong affirmative image, comfort with traditions and values represented and a strong sense of responsibility. It is hoped that a more complete understanding of the meaning of gun ownership will serve to help resolve the moral conflict surrounding the gun debate.