The Fruitless Pursuit of Legitimacy: Police Killings and Public Trust

The recent series of police killings has undeniably overshadowed long-standing efforts to earn public respect, instead engendering fear and mistrust. This shift in public sentiment not only exacerbates the evolving dynamic between law enforcement and the communities they serve but also reflects a profound lapse in the ability to instill respect through professional conduct and ethical policing.

Fear vs. Respect

The notion that police killings should be seen as a deterrent to improper behavior is misguided at best. Fear does not foster respect; it breeds an environment of unwarranted suspicion and hostility. While social media has perpetuated a narrative of unlawful and disproportionate use of force, perpetuating cycles of fear and distrust has become a self-perpetuating cycle. Black children, in particular, now run from law enforcement due to media portrayals of police misconduct, which includes cases like the smacking of black children and instances of unjustifiable lethal force.

The Impact on Community Dynamics

This atmosphere of fear undermines the effectiveness of law enforcement by fostering a climate of unwillingness to cooperate. Over time, this unyielding state of apprehension can lead to an escalation in confrontations and resistance. For example, as instances of police harming and inadvertently killing children increase, the armed response from adult members of the community is also expected to rise. This trend underscores a critical need for change in both law enforcement practices and the broader societal attitudes toward policing.

Professionalism and Competence

The incidents described represent a significant failure of professional standards, not a demonstration of competence. A truly professional law enforcement agency should be able to navigate complex situations with restraint and a commitment to public safety. Instead, these poorly handled encounters potentially expose a lack of training and a misalignment with the ethical and legal frameworks that are expected in modern policing.

née the Myth of Infallibility

Some argue that increased militarization and weaponry will ensure that law enforcement can maintain control. Yet, history provides ample evidence that the use of force begets more force. From ancient religious conflicts to more recent examples of World War II, the use of fear to win over populations has yielded mixed results, often overshadowed by the casualties and resentment incurred.

History as a Mirror

Historical precedents underscore the futility of relying on fear and violence to secure legitimacy. The Crusaders, for instance, aimed to win over the public through fear during the Massacre at Béziers. Similarly, during World War II, the Allies sought to win the hearts and minds of the German and Japanese populations through overwhelming force, including strategically targeted bombings and even the use of atomic weapons. These tactics, however, proved to be costly and ultimately failed to secure the durable respect and cooperation the Allies desired.

Modern Implications and Lessons

These historical examples remind us that the modern law enforcement agencies must seek legitimacy through principles of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. Rather than resorting to fear or violence, law enforcement must work towards building trust through genuine partnerships with the communities they serve. Only through such an approach can true respect for law enforcement be fostered and sustained in the long term.

Conclusion

The pursuit of legitimacy through fear and lethal action is a losing proposition. Law enforcement agencies must focus on improving training, fostering positive community relations, and adhering to ethical standards. The pursuit of public trust must rely on meaningful engagement and respect rather than the threat of violence. It is time for a paradigm shift in the way we approach law enforcement to ensure a safer and more respectful society.