User Reviews

Here we have one of the best episodes of Norman Lear's best series. The centerpiece encapsulates Archie Bunker's view of gun control. Because Norman Lear has his own view, the episode skews the issue. Despite this, the episode is hysterically funny.

You get the usual contrast of traditional male/female roles versus the new wave that Archie hates. The interaction of the characters is priceless. Because of the quality of the writing, the series holds up today.

Eventually, Archie and Mike get to the Constitution. Archie says that what the Supreme Court says has nothing to do with the law. Considering that the Constitution says that no one could deprive anyone of life without due process; and the court finding the death penalty unconstitutional in 1972 (before partially reversing), Archie has a point. Mike's comment about the militia clause would suggest that the founders intended to say that a militia has the right to guns. That is laughable on its face, and ignores the ninth amendment.

Archie's editorial is an utterly ridiculous statement with some truth in it. Studies have shown the effects of gun control. Criminals don't follow the law. Gun free zones are more dangerous because law abiding people are disarmed. While there could be a real debate, Lear's purpose is to push an agenda.

The end shows a man congratulating Archie for being against gun control. He robs Archie. Actually, criminals are in favor of gun control because it is far less risky for them. What if Archie had had a gun on him? Despite the tilting of the issue (Lear would do the same thing in the series, 704 Hauser St., with regard to Anita Hill having no reason to lie during the Clarence Thomas hearings), this is one of the best episodes of a great series. I wonder if it prompted anyone to read the Federalist Papers.