The police and the state : security, social cooperation, and the public good /

The use of force by police continues to dominate political and social debates. Here, del Pozo (Brown Univ.) philosophizes about what it means to be a police officer in a pluralist democracy. The author is particularly skilled at navigating the controversial space that exists within considerations for proper use of force--having a political philosopher's perspective is particularly helpful here. The book's 10 chapters outline how policing has changed historically in the US and how social issues related to race, class, and gender have contributed to policing. The first several chapters provide a foundation for readers to better understand how the changes in policing have impacted American democracy. Here readers can see the uniqueness of del Pozo's argument as he explains how procedural justice is linked to notions like public reason and moral duty. The Police and the State is a remarkable and powerfully written book, excellent for all readers interested in criminology, philosophy, law, and sociology. It is particularly useful for looking at the structures in place that contribute to the policing culture in the US. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty; professionals. --Aaron RS Lorenz, Ramapo College