I see it the same way as locking the doors when you leave, wearing a life jacket, and wearing a seat belt. If you take any of those precautions, is it because because you are afraid of what might happen?
Like a gun, they might not work as intended when needed. Someone could break into your house even though your doors are locked and seat belts can't save everyone in every wreck.
Maybe fear of others waving guns around and being irresponsible with them could be a mental weakness too.
We're talking about carrying one of several tools that may be needed in an emergency. If you want to talk weakness lets talk about dope. And, by the way, if you can't pass a UA it's best to leave your guns locked up at home. If a gun is used there's a high probability the shooter will be tested.
When people ask me why I carry a gun my usual answer is, "why not?" I'm responsible, trained, and practiced. I don't find it inconvenient so I really have no reason not to.