The Influence of Westerns on Perceptions of Guns and Violence

The podcast episode explores the impact of Westerns, specifically the TV show Gunsmoke, on shaping American attitudes towards guns and violence. It highlights how Westerns portrayed a mythic version of the Wild West, filled with gunfights and lawlessness, where individuals had to rely on their own firearms for protection. The proliferation of revolvers during that era contributed to an increase in violence, leading to calls for gun control measures. The real-life Dodge City, however, had significantly lower crime rates than depicted in Westerns. The podcast examines the role of gun control laws enacted in response to the rise of firearms, including public carry restrictions and sensitive places laws. It also delves into the absurdity of the gun violence portrayed in Gunsmoke, where the town's U.S. Marshal, Matt Dillon, continually fails to prevent murders despite his symbol of authority. The episode questions the impact of such TV shows on shaping the perceptions and fantasies of individuals like Justices Samuel Alito and Brett Kavanaugh, who draw irrational conclusions about firearms and personal defense.