Policing America   

The most basic function of any government is the protection of its citizens. This is accomplished through the establishment of laws which are only as effective as their enforcement, hence the establishment of police forces or “law enforcement” agencies. However, considering that our nation was founded on mistrust of government, the public’s appreciation for such agencies has always been an ever shifting in nature. That is particularly true in today’s divisive political climate with high profile cases of police misconduct prominently featured almost daily in our news media. This class will discuss the history of policing in America and the consistent efforts to “professionalize” law enforcement and its ever-expanding role in modern society.

The most basic function of any government is the protection of its citizens. This is accomplished through the establishment of laws which are only as effective as their enforcement, hence the establishment of police forces or “law enforcement” agencies. However, considering that our nation was founded on mistrust of government, the public’s appreciation for such agencies has always been an ever shifting in nature. That is particularly true in today’s divisive political climate with high profile cases of police misconduct prominently featured almost daily in our news media. This class will discuss the history of policing in America and the consistent efforts to “professionalize” law enforcement and its ever-expanding role in modern society.