Chapter 2: Policing in the American Context

Question 1

The Pillars of Democracy (Examples)

Answer 1

Examples of democracy in our daily lives
• Rule of law
• Separation of powers
• People’s liberties

Question 2

The Pillars of Democracy

Answer 2

• The sovereignty of the people
• Government based upon
consent of the governed
• Majority rule
• Minority rights
• Guarantee of basic human
rights
• Free and fair elections
• Equality before the law
• Due process of law
• Constitutional limits on
government 
• Social, economic, and
political pluralism
• Values of tolerance,
pragmatism, cooperation,
and compromise

Question 3

What is Federalism?

Answer 3

A political doctrine wherein power is divided between a
central governing body and various constituent units
 Facilitates democracy by promoting participation at all
levels of government

Question 4

Consequences of Federalism

Answer 4

a) Law enforcement is divided between federal and
state levels.
b) Tensions may result between federal and state
agencies.
c) Cooperation between various agencies is
important.

Question 5

Police Organizational Environment

Answer 5

Interaction with other government entities

Question 6

Executive

Answer 6

• City councils/Mayor: Enact policies , control purse strings,
and nominate and dismiss police chiefs
• Police Commission: set policy, rules, and regulations,
oversee department operations, and investigate charges
filed against police department

Question 7

Legislative

Answer 7

State Legislature: Funding
•US Congress: Impact of legislation
• Ex) President Clinton’s “Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement
Act of 1994

Question 8

Judicial

Answer 8

• Impact of court decisions

* Ex) Miranda vs Arizona (1966) • Ex) Terry vs Ohio (1968)

Question 9

Role of Media

Answer 9

• “If it bleeds, it leads”

Question 10

Police in Democracy

Answer 10

a) Subject to the rule of law
b) Can intervene in the life of citizens under limited circumstances
c) Is publicly accountable