Why the Policing Profession in the 1960s Seemed More Professional
Introduction
It is widely acknowledged that people, especially those in professional roles such as the police, generally exhibited a higher level of professionalism in the 1960s compared to today. While this perception may seem contradictory in the face of modern advancements, a deeper look into the evolution of media technology reveals an interesting narrative. This article explores why the police force in the 1960s was perceived as more professional, delving into the role of media and entertainment in shaping public perception.
The Role of Media and Entertainment in Shaping Perceptions
Back in the 1960s, the general public had limited exposure to the realities of police work. This was largely due to the fact that there were only three major television networks providing programming options. Popular shows like “Adam 12” played a significant role in imprinting certain images of police officers in the minds of viewers. These scripts, while often sanitized, provided the public with a semblance of professionalism and discipline that was consistent across all depictions of law enforcement.
The Evolution of Media in the 21st Century
The advent of the 21st century brought about a seismic shift in the way information is disseminated and consumed. The proliferation of smartphones, Go-Pro cameras, dash cams, and the rise of social media platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat, and TikTok have dramatically altered how the public perceives the police. Now, every moment on the beat can be captured and shared, offering an unfiltered insight into the day-to-day life and challenges faced by law enforcement officials.
Moreover, the 24-hour news cycles of channels like CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News, not to mention the Weather Channel, amplify the scrutiny placed on police actions. Every detail, from traffic stops to controversial incidents, is subjected to intense public and media scrutiny. This constant exposure can have a profound impact on public perception, often leading to more scrutiny and skepticism towards the police force.
The Impact of Education and Professional Training
It is important to highlight that, despite the increased scrutiny, police in the United States are likely more professional today than in the past. This can be attributed to the growing number of police officers who have completed criminal justice or related degrees before joining law enforcement. Many of these individuals receive much of their training in college or through military service, making them better prepared to handle the complex and often challenging demands of their job.
Moreover, the argument that police in the 1960s were more professional can also be refuted by considering the context of the times. Advances in media and technology have indeed changed the landscape, making it easier for the public to witness and scrutinize police actions. However, this does not necessarily mean that the force was less professional. Instead, it means that the line between public and private life has become increasingly blurred, leading to a more immediate and direct confrontation with the realities of law enforcement work.
Lessons from the Vietnam War Era
A parallel can be drawn between the evolution of media during the Vietnam War and the current situation in policing. During the Vietnam War, television cameras brought the harsh realities of the battlefield into living rooms worldwide, which led to increased anti-war sentiment. Similarly, current media advancements allow the public to witness the gritty and often difficult aspects of police work in real-time, leading to heightened scrutiny and debate.
The core message here is that, while media has undoubtedly changed the perception of law enforcement, it has not diminished the professionalism inherent in the police force. Instead, it has simply amplified the challenges and responsibilities associated with the role, making it more transparent and accessible to the public.
Conclusion
While it is true that the police in the 1960s were perceived as more professional by many due to limited media exposure, the evolving media landscape has brought about a new era of scrutiny and transparency. It is a testament to the enduring professionalism of the police force that they have managed to navigate these changes with grace and skill, maintaining the crucial balance between public trust and accountability.