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How has technology, such as body cameras and social media, affected the prevalence of police brutality?

Simone Saban

Technology has had a significant impact on the prevalence of police brutality, especially with the advent of body cameras and social media. These technological advancements have greatly affected the way people perceive law enforcement; they have created greater transparency and accountability. By allowing video footage captured on body cameras to be available for public view and sharing on social media platforms, a broader audience can witness inappropriate police behavior and demand accountability for police misconduct.

One of the most significant changes brought about by technology is the rise of social media, where the world is constantly watching. Social media has made it possible for people to document and share incidents of police brutality in real-time, and in a way that was not possible before. Police brutality incidents can now be viewed from multiple angles, giving a broader perspective on the action taken by law enforcement. This increased transparency has been a game-changer and has brought a level of accountability that was not possible previously.

Another technology that has transformed the landscape of policing is the use of body-worn cameras. These cameras capture interactions between police officers and the public. Thus, the actions of police officers are accountable not only to their supervisors but also to the individuals who review the footage. Body cameras have become a deterrent to inappropriate behavior because officers know that their every move is recorded. At the same time, they have the potential to exonerate police officers who are falsely accused of misconduct and face litigation.

The use of technology in policing comes with potential costs and risks. For instance, body cameras can be intrusive and generate privacy concerns, particularly during domestic and sensitive events. Also, the proliferation of social media can exacerbate false narratives, leading to a rush to judgment in situations that may be complicated. This unsettling situation calls for a balanced approach that considers both the benefits and risks of technology in policing.

In conclusion, the impact of technology in curbing police brutality is tremendous. The availability of video footage and social media sharing has made it possible to hold law enforcement accountable as never before. Body cameras have also provided both a record and deterrence mechanism to inappropriate behavior. Notwithstanding the benefits, there are potential dangers and ethical issues associated with the use of technology in policing. Finding a balance between the gains and the risks is necessary to exploit technology's full potential in the law enforcement arena.