[ganoushoreilly]

I would disagree, tons of countries with large gun ownership. The basis for it in the US stems from our founding and it's codification as a right to bear arms. It's not one granted by the government, but one upheld by it.

Some could say that if it weren't for this mindset and approach, much of the world would be worse off. The backbone military for the world that affords much of the stability needed is the US military. The emphasis on national defense capabilities and the government and civilian levels are what make us unique. It's not for everyone, but in the same vein, there's not a lack of people requesting help or intervention either.