A tale of two cultures: A comparison of the cultures of the police and academia

Canter, David V. (2004) A tale of two cultures: A comparison of the cultures of the police and academia. In: Policing a safe, just and tolerant socitey: an international model. Waterside Press, Winchester, UK, pp. 109-121. ISBN 9781904380092

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Abstract

One of the developments in policing that is significant in creating a more just society
is the increasing openness of police forces to academic work and their embracing of
scientific approaches to crime management. These increasing interactions require
cross-cultural understanding which is not always present. It is therefore of value to
explore the contrasts between the culture of the police and of academics. It is argued
that these two cultures differ in a) their approach to the nature of knowledge, b) what
are considered appropriate forms of action, and c) in the objectives that motivate
individuals within these contexts. These differences are generated by the overall
missions of the different institutions and are usually consonant with them. However,
academics can benefit from taking on board some of the perspectives of the police and
the police increasingly need academic and scientific input. Thus whilst both cultures
have something to offer there is great benefit in them getting to understand each other
so that they can work together more productively. It is the out of the interaction
between these cultures, as sort of miscegenation, that more effective policing will
emerge.

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