Discussion Thread_ Incidents - CJUS 350
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Liberty University *
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Course
350
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
Pages
2
Uploaded by KidAtom12666
Thread:
Please describe what you think is meant by the blue wall of silence? Does it truly exist or
is this just a perception? Would a police officer with very strong morals, values, and ethics fail to
expose officer wrongdoing? Does the subculture constrain the officer’s individual values?
In Hebrews 13:17, the Bible states, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are
keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with
joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” What must effective
leaders do to ensure they have faithful followership?
Response:
400 words
The blue wall of silence refers to the unwritten code of silence among police officers not to
report misconduct or illegal behavior by fellow officers. It is a form of corruption pervasive in
law enforcement. “Silences are maintained, supported, and endorsed in a reflexive and unspoken
means of obstructing evaluation of officer conduct by interlopers who (the subculture suggests)
have little appreciation for or understanding of the danger, adversity, and peril that consume the
working lives of the police (Nolan, 2009).” It can lead to a lack of accountability for police
officers who break the law or violate citizens' rights. The blue wall of silence is a real
phenomenon, although its prevalence is debated. Studies have found that police officers are less
likely to report misconduct by fellow officers. This is because of fear of retribution and loyalty to
their colleagues. This behavior is a form of corruption and can lead to accountability lack.
Although a police officer with very strong morals, values, and ethics may be less likely to fail to
expose officer wrongdoing, they may still be faced with the difficult decision of whether or not
to speak out against the blue wall of silence. Fear of retribution and loyalty to their colleagues
could still be present, making it difficult to make the right decision. These officers are more
likely to uphold the law and protect the public interest.
Yes, the subculture of the blue wall of silence can constrain the individual values of a police
officer. Even an officer with strong morals, values, and ethics may find it difficult to go against
the prevailing culture of the police force and report misconduct or illegal behavior by fellow
officers. The fear of retribution and a sense of loyalty to their colleagues make it difficult for
these officers to make the right decision.
Effective leaders must do their best to create a culture of honesty, integrity, and transparency
within their organization. They must reward and recognize officers who report misconduct or
illegal behavior and create a safe environment in which officers can come forward without fear
of retribution. Titus 1:9, “They must pay attention to the reliable message as it has been taught to
them so that they can encourage people with healthy instruction and refute those who speak
against it (
Common English Bible
, 2013).” Leaders need to set an example and demonstrate that
they are committed to upholding the law and protecting the public interest, and they must ensure
that any officer who violates the law or abuses their authority is held accountable. Additionally,
effective leaders should provide ongoing training and education for their officers to ensure they
understand the importance of upholding the law and protecting the public interest.
Common English Bible
(2013). The CEB Study Bible. (Original work published 2011).
Nolan, T. (2009). Behind the Blue Wall of Silence.
Men and Masculinities.
,
12
(2), 250–257.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1097184X09334700
Replies:
200 words
Hi, Dillon. I enjoyed reading your discussion thread this week. Survival is law enforcement's top
priority, and officers return home at the end of their watch. Obtaining the trust of their fellow
officers is the key to completing this mission. Sometimes telling the truth no matter what can get
in the way of everyone going home. Officers may omit parts of their statements, embellish
accounts, or provide false information if it is in their best interest. False testimony can sometimes
be understood, even if it is considered false witnessing. Moral compass is clouded when you rely
on someone for survival. 1 Peter 1:14-15, “Don’t be conformed to your former desires, those that
shaped you when you were ignorant. But, as obedient children, you must be holy in every aspect
of your lives, just as the one who called you is holy (
Common English Bible
, 2013).” Morality
depends on self-preservation as a distraction.
We perceive police officers largely based on the blue wall of silence. Furthermore, this blue wall
of silence can facilitate racial profiling by officers, leading to more wrongful convictions. The
code also leads to biased policing within a department and creates cliques. In other words, you
could have a multitude of officers coming after you if you speak up about something you saw or
heard from another officer. When something is controversial, speaking up can make you a target
on your back. Their egos are boosted by conforming to the group around them. Therefore, we
should do the opposite and act in accordance with the law.
Common English Bible
(2013). The CEB Study Bible. (Original work published 2011).
Hi, Zachary. I enjoyed reading your discussion thread this week. Research I've conducted in
recent years has led me to believe in the blue wall of silence. As a result, I do believe officers
will face backlash and need to face ostracization for violating the code of silence. Despite this, I
do not believe the code is dying out. Although police officers are reluctant to report police
misconduct because of the code of silence, studies have shown that they are willing to report
misconduct based on the seriousness of the misconduct. In certain circumstances, police officers
remain silent, such as when they see a fellow officer taking gratuities or rudely treating someone.
In other words, although the code of conduct is not dying, attitudes toward unethical behavior are
shifting. 2 Peter 2:10-11, “This is especially true for those who follow after the corrupt cravings
of the sinful nature and defy the Lord’s authority. These reckless, brash people aren’t afraid to
insult the glorious ones, yet angels, who are stronger and more powerful, don’t use insults when
pronouncing the Lord’s judgment on them (
Common English Bible
, 2013).” In my opinion, an
effective leader has the following characteristics. In order to be a successful leader, you need to
be a positive role model who has high morals and ethics.
Common English Bible
(2013). The CEB Study Bible. (Original work published 2011).
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