Course Description
This course will explore issues arising around policing, and ask students to re-imagine our entire concept of public safety. In recent history, any discussion of public safety was always a discussion of policing, and often little else. The course will ask students to take a broader look at the whole concept of safety without limiting themselves to policing. What is necessary to create public safety for everyone? The course will require students to use all of their legal and analytical skills to re-imagine how public safety should be created and delivered to all, from the ground up. Subjects considered may include such topics as the origin and purposes of policing agencies; handling crises related to mental health, homelessness, and drug addiction; the recruiting and training of police; and accountability for police misconduct. Students will use assigned readings, group discussions, presentations, and writing assignments to bring together theoretical knowledge and learning, lived experience, and the experience gained in the class. Class requirements will include one short (5-7 pp.) essay-style paper, one full-length (approx. 20 pp.) analytical paper, and helping to lead at least one class discussion.