This course examines the historical and contemporary intersection between policing and politics in the U.S. We first study the political history of policing, tracing its development from the colonial era to today. Next, we evaluate police incentives and power, covering theories of public legitimacy and organizational independence and strategic practices used to maintain social order, especially in marginalized communities. We then assess consequences of policing for social justice and civic incorporation. We conclude with an eye toward policing’s future given controversies over racialized uses of force.
Department of Sociology