The question of whether police officers should carry guns remains a highly debated topic worldwide. Supporters argue that being armed allows the police to protect themselves and the public effectively, while opponents claim that guns increase the risk of vi...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-08-01
Writing a discursive essay on whether police should carry guns requires a balanced argument and a clear structure. This guide deconstructs a high-scoring model essay, providing you with the specific techniques, vocabulary, and examiner insights needed to achieve a top grade on your English exam.
Introduction
The question of whether police officers should carry guns remains a highly debated topic worldwide. Supporters argue that being armed allows the police to protect themselves and the public effectively, while opponents claim that guns increase the risk of violence and erode trust between officers and citizens. This essay will discuss both perspectives before concluding that although guns can be necessary in certain high-risk situations, routine arming of police often causes more harm than good and should be approached with caution.
Reasons why police should carry guns
Proponents of arming the police emphasize safety and deterrence. Police officers frequently deal with dangerous criminals, violent situations, and unpredictable emergencies. Without firearms, they may be unable to protect themselves or others. In countries with high levels of gun ownership or violent crime, such as the United States or Brazil, unarmed police would be at serious risk. Guns also act as a deterrent — knowing that the police are armed may discourage criminals from using weapons themselves. Furthermore, in cases of terrorism or armed robbery, having an armed police force can mean the difference between life and death. From this perspective, guns are not symbols of violence but tools of protection and authority. …