So please bear with me, this could take a minute...
I am a philosopher and theologian by academic training. (Those degrees and $4 will get you a cup of coffee.) As such, I am fascinated by where our reason and our beliefs intersect to inform our actions.
Truth be told, I live at or below “The Snub Lifestyle.” In fact, I really live something like “The Leatherman & Lighter Lifestyle.” Having to MacGyver some solution to a mechanical problem or start a fire are the kinds of emergencies I encounter. Neither I nor anyone in my extended family or circle of friends has ever had to display or use a firearm to protect themselves. Following the Rules of Stupid (at least since my twenties ended) has kept me in the plus column thus far.
At the same time, I’ve had a CCW in every state I’ve lived in, where it’s been possible to acquire one. (In my case, the thinking has been less about crime and more about a belief that a constitutional right unexercised is a constitutional right lost.)
What I’m really interested in, however, is the philosophy of other P-Fers. Why have you chosen to take action to insulate yourself against THIS PARTICULAR low odds risk (violent crime requiring a DGU)?
I don’t find the usual bromides helpful, e.g., "because I can’t carry a cop; it’s not the odds, it’s the stakes; better to have one and not need it than need one and not have it," etc. I'm interested in deeper reflections on the topic. What realistic and genuine problem are you looking to solve?
In 50+ years on the planet (much of it working with teenagers and their families) my lived experience is that most human beings are fundamentally good. No question, YMMV. I have certainly run into a scattered few, but the number of Current & Future Sociopaths of America I’ve had to deal with in my life I can count on one hand. None of them have needed shooting. Still, I lock my car and house doors.
Ultimately, what I’m interested in is why you believe the daily carry of a firearm is warranted in your life. What reasoning and beliefs have led to the action of your carrying daily?
NB: I recognize that others have had very different life experiences and therefore have a very different understanding of human nature. Not for a minute do I discount those perspectives. In fact, those are some of the perspectives in which I am most interested...