[Borrible]

> Suicide isn't logical or rational

Sometimes it is.

Not for most of the type of suicide we talk about here, I agree with you. But there are differences.

Regarding firearms, what about suicide rates in Japan? Would they be higher with easier access to firearms?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suicide_in_Japan

[bayesian_horse]

What do you think I meant by "almost always"?

And yes, I believe there would be even more successful suicides in Japan if the Japanese had easier access to firearms.

[Borrible]

> What do you think I meant by "almost always"?

Actually I did not consider what you meant with "almost always", because it is quite fuzzy and the value of that variable will may change over the discussion.

[watwut]

> Would they be higher with easier access to firearms?

Quite possibly. Is there a reason to think they would not?

And yes, culture where suicide can be honorable or beautiful ending will likely have more suicides. Western tradition was treating suicide as a sin and stigma.

[Borrible]

> Is there a reason to think they would not?

Yes, It could be dishonorable to use a firearm. A little bit of pain may make you look more manly, such stuff. The socio-cultural embedding of an an act that makes it logical and rational.