The Gray Area with Sean Illing Behind the blue wall
Feb 9, 2023
Rosa Brooks, a law professor at Georgetown University and former reserve police officer, shares her unique insights on American policing. She discusses the culture of silence within the force and contrasts the idealistic motivations of officers with the challenges they face. Topics include the need for a shift from a 'warrior' to a 'guardian' mindset, the complexities of police training, and the controversial issue of qualified immunity. Brooks advocates for systemic reforms and highlights innovative programs aimed at fostering community-centric policing.
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Unconventional Sabbatical
- Rosa Brooks, a law professor, became a reserve police officer as a sabbatical project.
- She was intrigued by the opacity of police culture and wanted to understand it from the inside.
Idealism and Cynicism in Policing
- Most police officers enter the profession with idealistic motivations, wanting to help people or prevent crime.
- However, they often develop cynicism due to constant exposure to the worst of society.
Two Truths in Tension
- Policing in America perpetuates socioeconomic divisions and is disproportionately violent.
- However, most cops never use their weapons and feel misunderstood.
