The Police: An Introduction

This book explores the principles of policing and introduces readers to the history, administration, and day-to-day practices of the police in the United States. It provides learners with the basic framework for understanding fundamental contemporary police issues while at the same time empowering them to question the conventional wisdom about policing. Chapter topics include historical foundations of policing, contemporary police systems, police operations, police authority, ethics and deviance, understanding and controlling police behavior, personnel administration, the police and the community, job-related issues, and current challenges and future directions. For individuals considering a career in law enforcement.