Police Entrance Practice Exam

What does ‘policing by consent’ signify?

1. The use of force by police is always justified

2. Policing derives its legitimacy from the public

3. Police have absolute authority over citizens

4. Police operations must always be transparent

The correct answer is: Policing derives its legitimacy from the public

'Policing by consent' signifies that the legitimacy of law enforcement comes from the trust and approval of the public they serve. This concept emphasizes the importance of a cooperative relationship between the community and the police. It indicates that the powers and authority of police officers are granted based on the consent of the governed, suggesting that engagement with the community is essential for effective policing. This philosophy underlines the idea that communities should feel safe and supported by their police force, fostering an environment where law enforcement works collaboratively with citizens. In contrast, some of the other concepts do not align with this principle. For instance, the notion that police have absolute authority over citizens contradicts the fundamental idea of consent, as it implies a lack of accountability to the community. Similarly, while transparency in police operations is important for maintaining public trust, it is not the defining characteristic of 'policing by consent.' Lastly, the suggestion that the use of force by police is always justified runs counter to the principles of community trust and accountability that underpin policing by consent, where force should be a last resort and carefully regulated.