Religion is probably the biggest cause of killing, despite what their scriptures say. So I look forward to a rational, secular age, devoid of superstition and wacko nutjobs. Libya is going tits-up, Algeria is a bad place to be...
With regard to judging for one's life. We are the only ones who can, aren't we? Others may have the power to incarcerate, torture, execute, but we ultimately judge ourselves - our actions and causal motives. Only we know the true motive behind our actions, whether they be altuistic, selfish or otherwise. Anyway back to guns and their usefulness - unless you hunt for a living or take part in a shooting sport, I really can't see the point in owning one. It must be that the owners are insecure, insane, or both. I've been on firing ranges with SLRs and 303s and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. But, taking one home? Hell, no.