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While the aspiration for justice persists in society, the trajectory of American capitalism appears increasingly aligned with the proliferation of firearms.
A notable example is Protector, a newly launched gig app allowing users to book armed drivers and personal security personnel. The app debuted last week in New York and Los Angeles, offering ride-sharing options with gunslinging drivers alongside bodyguards, primarily drawn from military or law enforcement backgrounds.
The creation of this app raises pressing questions about the societal sentiment towards security and personal protection. Protector’s base rate starts at $200 per hour with a five-hour minimum requirement, allowing users to tailor their security detail’s appearance and mode of transport according to personal preference.
Clients can choose dress codes that range from business formal to something termed “tactical casual.” This option invites an image reminiscent of action-hero scenarios, offering an intriguing juxtaposition between security and a sense of style. The vehicles available for transport include a Cadillac Escalade or a Chevy Suburban, totaling capacity for five clients in need of protection.
The emergence of Protector underscores a growing sentiment among wealthy individuals about their personal safety, catalyzed by high-profile incidents such as the recent shooting of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, in New York City. The reaction to this event highlighted a national discourse where some expressed sympathy towards the alleged perpetrator over the victim.
Protector had announced its launch mere days after Thompson’s tragic death, with founder Nick Sarath extending condolences in a press statement that also revealed the app’s expedited initiation in New York City. Sarath articulated the prevailing reliance on law enforcement for safety, emphasizing its limitations.
At just 25 years old, Sarath lacks formal law enforcement experience but previously launched Poparazzi, an app that sought to redefine social interactions by promoting the sharing of others’ images rather than selfies. Despite gaining initial attention, Poparazzi ceased operations two years after its debut.
In the marketplace just before Thompson’s death, security firms saw an influx of inquiries from affluent clients uneasy about their safety. This growing sector encompasses individuals reportedly fearing physical threats, an unease reported by luxury lifestyle publications which discuss the sentiments of the ultra-wealthy amid rising crime rates and political unrest.
Protector’s marketing strategy aims at a dual audience: those genuinely frightened by current societal violence and younger individuals seeking thrilling experiences. This ambition raises concerns about the appropriateness of introducing firearms into social situations that might previously have remained peaceful.
Coming back to the data surrounding gun presence in public spaces, studies establish a clear correlation between increased firearm prevalence and the likelihood of violent incidents. Research indicates that the mere presence of a firearm can escalate conflicts, often leading to fatal outcomes.
For those in privileged circumstances considering the allure of Protector’s services, a critical reflection upon the implications of adding more firearms to society’s fabric is warranted. Society’s safety should not be compromised for the sake of luxury or status. The consideration of one’s impact on societal dynamics can potentially inform decisions that contribute to a more balanced community.
Ultimately, as new services emerge in this contentious arena, it may be wise to consider whether catering to such fears helps or hinders the pursuit of a genuinely secure and just society.
Source
www.yahoo.com