Our founding fathers clearly wanted lots of "real firepowwer in the streets." They specifically did not want all "firepower" concentrated in the hands of the police and rulers. Of course they expected that the people would be responsible citizens. But that kind of thinking is repugnant to the Left and to liberals. They disagree on both points - they want both firearms and responsibility restricted to central authority.
Yes. The heart of the matter. They have contempt for the average citizen,and do not believe you have the capability to think for yourself, nor the willpower to accept the responsibility for doing so.
Sadly, much of the demographic supporting liberal politics falls into two categories: Those who think they are the smartest and should make all decisions, and those who are willing to let them do so.