Getting science into policy for gun control and NHS reform
Oct 12, 2024
auto_awesome
Louis Klarevas, a research professor at Columbia University and author of "Rampage Nation," dives deep into the intricacies of gun control policy. He discusses the historical evidence vacuum in the U.S. and how grassroots movements are driving change. Klarevas emphasizes the power of data in advocacy while revealing challenges posed by misinformation and lobby influences. The conversation highlights the potential of citizens' assemblies to inform pivotal debates in gun regulation and NHS reform, illuminating a path forward for evidence-based policy.
Stricter gun access laws lead to fewer gun-related deaths, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based advocacy for policy change.
Citizens' assemblies can effectively engage public opinion in healthcare discussions, fostering informed decision-making and enhancing democratic participation.
Deep dives
Emerging Evidence on Gun Control
Recent findings indicate that states implementing stricter gun access laws see a significant decrease in gun-related deaths. Research shows that background checks, waiting periods, and mandatory training contribute to the reduction of firearm harm. As states adopt more stringent regulations, natural experiments allow a comparison between permissive and restrictive policies, further establishing the effectiveness of these measures. This evidence bolsters advocacy efforts for change and highlights the need for data-driven discussions in gun policy reform.
Grassroots Movement Impact
A notable grassroots effort, spearheaded by Moms Demand Action, effectively combines evidence from research with personal narratives to influence policy change. This organization, which emerged in response to the Sandy Hook tragedy, emphasizes the critical role of community activism in shaping lawmakers' approaches to gun control. By illustrating the link between gun regulation and public safety through compelling stories, the movement aims to counter disinformation propagated by well-funded opponents. This strategy is crucial for further empowering legislators to support effective gun safety measures.
Role of Citizens' Assemblies in Health Policy
Citizens' assemblies serve as an innovative approach to involve the public in complex policy discussions, particularly regarding healthcare. By gathering diverse groups of citizens to deliberate on pressing topics, these assemblies can provide decision-makers with grounded insights that reflect public concerns. The model aims to address polarized issues effectively and enhance evidence-based policymaking, especially in areas like the NHS reform. Engaging citizens in such a manner can create a strong foundation for democratic participation and foster more informed policy recommendations.
One of the seemingly intractable issues when it comes to legislative change in the US is gun control. One reason policy change is so difficult, is the US specific evidence vacuum, but that’s beginning to change.
We're joined by Louis Klarevas, an academic at the University of Colombia and author of the book “Rampage Nation, securing america from gun violence" and Shannon Watts, from Moms Demand Action which is a grassroots movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence.
Even when there is evidence, the trade-offs needed for legislative change can still paralyse policy makers. Citizen assemblies, a form of democratic participation that asks the public for their views, has helped clarify some key healthcare issues, from assisted dying in Jersey, to abortion access in Ireland.
Rebecca McKee from the Institute of Government argues they could be used to fix the NHS, and joins us to explain how.