Ming the clam (c. 1499-2006) lived off the coast of Iceland, a country noted for its elves, otherworldly geography, hot thermal springs and remarkably low crime rate. It is reported that Iceland is “awash in firearms”, yet gun violence is virtually nonexistent. Police are unarmed and Icelanders feel safe in their homes and in public. Although there is no ideal explanation for the differences between gun violence in the United States and Iceland, many believe that it is rooted in economic equality.

A Clam’s Life (detail)