NCJ Number
212878
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management Volume: 28 Issue: 4 Dated: 2005 Pages: 642-653
Date Published
2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article presents an alternative model for policing in the postmodern (current day) society.
Abstract
Analysis of the research and professional literature suggests that the traditional bureaucratic model of policing may no longer be effective in today’s postmodern environment. Organizational effectiveness would be improved by adopting a more democratic model of policing in which management determines the broad philosophical principles while allowing policing practitioners to make local decisions. The author contends that the new philosophy of policing should be guided by a victim-centered philosophy, which is more useful in a postmodern society. The history of policing is presented and its hierarchical, quasi-military structure is described. The rigid rules and compliance requirements of the traditional policing model are critiqued for not allowing original thought or the exercise of individual judgment. The traditional policing work environment develops a negative tone as a result, which encourages mediocrity on the job. The new policing model suggested by the author reduces bureaucracy to encourage individual internalization of the job. The model deconstructs the policing organization into cooperative teams of autonomous working units that are guided by a victim-centered philosophy. References