Before The Badge

   I think we all have perceptions of the actions of the foot soldiers of law enforcement--the cops on the beat. The camp I fall into is deeply concerned about the disproportionate number of Blacks being surveiled,  arrested and killed by police. Some think the force is being bullied by activists, the media, and political correctness. Some want to defund them while others want to give them military grade weapons. 

     In Before The Badge: How Academy Training Shapes Police Violence Samantha J. Simon shares an interesting perspective based on months of intensive field research. Prospective police officers aren't selected for and trained in racism. They are carefully selected for and socialized into a almost cult like institution. 

     "I watched this socialization process unfold for cadets during the six to eight months that they spent training to be police officers. Importantly, this socialization emphasized, and indeed required, that cadets thought about and engaged in violence that sustained their institution."

     Those cadets chosen for traits such as passion for their chosen field, a strong sense of loyalty, willingness to use physical violence, conservative beliefs, values, and political views, comfort with hierarchy, willingness to follow commands, and a binary good guy/bad guy mind set are brought into a very insular society. They spend most of their time on and off the clock with other members of the force. Outsiders--especially media professionals, activists--are portrayed as dangerous beings who put them in constant peril. "If everyone is out to get you, in one form or another, it becomes easy to legitimize violent responses and dismiss any criticism."

     And they're taught to think of themselves as warriors preparing for battle against constantly threatening advisories.

     I believe that Before The Badge is an important read for anyone concerned about the state of law enforcement in today's America. 

On a purrrsonal note, I had a totally awesome Valentines Day. Eugene had been out plowing and came home in time for me to make him breakfast. He gave me beautiful flowers and candy. I participated in really fun activities at school. When I got home Eugene took me to Applebee's for supper. 

A great big shout out goes out to Eugene. 

Jules Hathaway 

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