I’ve heard many pundits dismiss the issue of “Stand Your Ground” laws in the discussion of the Trayvon Martin case because it wasn’t part of the defense strategy but I think that’s missing the underlying issue. When you combine people’s prejudices with guns and the right to use force in self-defense outside of your home, there will be more killings. Don’t buy it? Well, think about how people act in their cars when you accidentally cut them off. Now put a gun, a perceived threat, and no obligation to retreat first all together.
