When it comes to discussing the second amendment, one should expect a few loaded questions.

The controversial issue of gun control will be laid bare before UT students Wednesday night as two guest speakers debate the pros and cons surrounding the heated topic. The debate will feature former gang member Juan Pacheco discussing the merits of firearm control with famed gun advocate and blogger Robert Farago.

In the United States, it is estimated that civilians possess 270 million firearms, while police authorities hold slightly less than 900,000. In Tennessee alone, more than 9,000 people were killed by firearms between 2002 and 2011, according to a report from americanprogress.org.

For Natalie Bennett, a sophomore in College Scholars and vice chair of Issues Committee, the event will offer students a chance to step back from their respective biases and appreciate differing points of view.

“It is so easy to get caught up in politics and rhetoric and forget that it is important to respectfully present your facts,” Bennett explained. “If the debate can open students’ minds and expand on their knowledge, then we have accomplished our goal in selecting this event.”

Bennett stressed that rather than focusing on a single aspect of the issue, the debate will cover the “violence, safety, the Constitution, sport, regulation,” and other facets surrounding gun control.

Dave Melando, a junior in supply chain management, said he views the second amendment as a right guaranteed to all American citizens.

“Gun control is a simple need and right that every American is entitled to,” Melando said.

Despite his support, however, Melando said he still recognizes the complexity of the issue and the need for a “lengthy background and family history process before one should be able to purchase (a gun).”

The debate was chosen by members of UT’s Issues Committee among a host of other potential topics. The event begins at 7 p.m Wednesday night inside the University Center’s Cox Auditorium.