This thesis paper contributes to the academic debate on how the Assault Weapons Ban effected mass shootings. It concludes that the ban had no proven effect on the frequency of mass shootings and...Show moreThis thesis paper contributes to the academic debate on how the Assault Weapons Ban effected mass shootings. It concludes that the ban had no proven effect on the frequency of mass shootings and the amount of victims in a mass shooting.Show less
On the 14th of February, 2018, the United States was confronted with yet another school shooting. This time it was at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Nicolas Cruz killed...Show moreOn the 14th of February, 2018, the United States was confronted with yet another school shooting. This time it was at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Nicolas Cruz killed 17 people and injured another 14 people with an assault rifle he legally obtained. As mass shootings are a common occurrence in the United States, reactions to one are often predictable and changes regarding gun control are lacking. However, in recent years new actors, in the form of social media, have come to play a role in the aftermath of mass shootings. In the case of the Parkland shooting, social media played a role in crisis communication and in creating both an online and offline activist movement called the Never Again movement. Through different activist efforts, this movement is trying to achieve the implementation of sensible gun laws. By analysing the current gun debate and gun problem in the United States, and by researching the role of social media in the Never Again movement, this thesis will be able to assess the impact of social media on the Parkland shooting and its aftermath.Show less
