"I have had encounters with disgruntled students over the years, some of whom seemed quite upset, but I always assumed that when they reached into their backpacks they were going for a pencil. Since I carry a pen to lecture, I did not feel outgunned..."
Dr. Hampikian fears that because some students will now be armed, professors will likewise feel the need to arm themselves, and that the result could be situations which escalate into some sort of shooting. Now, when an angry student approaches, he worries what that student is going into his backpack to get. The title of his letter is more of a facetious question than an actual inquiry into the rules of engagement, but his point is well taken.
Critics of his letter have pointed out that it is likely that at least some students were already carrying weapons and that nothing has really changed.
Now consider this issue from a more local, more personal level. Would you be comfortable with your teachers carrying guns? Why or why not?
Please CLICK HERE to see Hampikian's complete letter to the New York Times.