police power

By enforcing the law and maintaining a civil society, the police make it possible for people to enjoy and exercise their individual rights and freedoms. But the power of the police can also be used to curtail those rights and freedoms. This book helps teen readers understand what the issues are, how they have come about, what actions are being taken to address the concerns, and why some of those actions are controversial.

"A ... look at the evolution of American police from filling their intended role as peacekeepers and guardians of citizen rights to calling themselves, and acting primarily as, 'law enforcement officers'"--Publisher's website.

Provides a critical exploration of assumptions about the law, and discusses law and order systems from throughout history to prompt readers to become more engaged in the accountability of law enforcement.