Mean Streets and Shootings

When a government is established, the first thing it tries to do is to monopolize violence. Its soldiers and police are the only ones legally authorized to exert violence against its citizens. Limitations (in most nations) are placed on the degree or level of force police are allowed to manifest. The cardinal rule is “the only amount reasonable and necessary” if the officer’s life or the life of another is in immediate danger. Many shootings involving the police, however, are about an officer’s perception of danger. Fear can override good judgment and training. When our actions are driven by fear vs. the presence of danger, they are often inappropriate, excessive, or unjustified.