Why do you think America has a problem with violent incidents such as mass shootings?

I wouldn’t say it’s more violent than other countries. There’s more gun deaths than in other countries because there’s a ridiculous amount of guns.

Alex

Social Worker

Jamaica Plain

Because America was birthed in violence — the genocide of Native Americans, the enslavement of African Americans — our entire formation was predicated on violence.

Jamel Sharif

Principal

Cambridge

Because it’s in the nature of the culture. America has been violent since the Puritans came here. If you look at the experience of people of color, you see the attitude of control through violence.

Chuck Turner

Organizer

Roxbury

I think people think it’s the only way to handle situations. It’s because people have lost faith in themselves.

Bernard Malloy

Retired

Jamaica Plain

I don’t think it’s more violent than other countries.

Jeffrey

Custodian

Roxbury

I think we have too many weapons. The NRA wants to make it so people can freely obtain guns. There are no gun control laws.

Tony Coward

Cloud Architect

Dorchester