29 Questions
According to the passage, who said that 'In a republic that honors the core of democracy—the greatest amount of power is given to those called Guardians'?
Plato
What does the passage suggest is the purpose of the 'SPEAR' model for ethical behavior?
To ensure law enforcement officers act ethically in their role as guardians of the community
What does the letter "S" stand for in reference to the SPEAR?
Stress
What does the letter "P" stand for in reference to the SPEAR?
Professionalism
What does the passage suggest law enforcement officers cannot control?
The actions and behavior of those they serve
What does the passage suggest law enforcement officers can influence?
The actions and behavior of those they work with
What prompted the supervisor to jump in and help during the struggle?
Realizing the struggle was continuing after handcuffing Mr. Dealer
Have a plan to handle unethical behavior before ___________ ?
you are confronted with it
What was significant about this particular foot chase for the supervisor?
It was his first foot chase as a supervisor
What does the supervisor mention about his role as a supervisor in relation to ethical behavior?
He emphasizes the importance of modeling ethical behavior at all times
What does the letter "E" stand for in reference to the SPEAR?
Explain (Your actions)
Have _____ discussions with your people about ethics.
ongoing
What is the primary role of the cover officer according to the text?
All of the above
Use _________ to practice ethical behavior.
The SPEAR model
What does the text mean by 'don't let each other fall victim to the amygdala hijack'?
Don't let your emotions take over and cloud your judgement
What does the text mean by 'be the guardian for your brother and sister officer'?
Step in and prevent your fellow officers from losing control
What does the letter "A" stand for in reference to the SPEAR?
Accountability
When it comes to ethical behavior, you must lead _______.
by example
What part of the brain is responsible for higher-level thinking and decision-making under normal conditions?
The prefrontal cortex
What happens when the amygdala senses danger?
The amygdala triggers an alarm and shuts off the prefrontal cortex
What is the term used to describe what happens when the amygdala takes over the brain?
Amygdala hijack
What are the consequences of the amygdala hijacking the brain?
Your brain forces your body into fight, flight, or freeze mode
What is the purpose of the amygdala hijack in most cases?
To allow us to react to physical threats and stay safe
What does the letter "R" stand for in reference to the SPEAR?
Respect
If you are truly a _________ , you will not fall victim to contempt of cop.
professional
According to the passage, what is one thing that happens when you treat others with respect?
It releases serotonin, a 'happiness chemical' in the brain
What does the passage suggest about the likelihood of everyone treating you with respect if you treat them respectfully?
It does not guarantee that they will treat you the same way
What does the passage suggest about the best approach to take when interacting with others?
Treat everyone with respect, as a starting point
What is the author referring to when he says "We must go to battle, but our enemy is not the community we serve. The greatest threat we face is the enemy within." ?
Unethical behavior
Study Notes
The Role of Guardians in Law Enforcement
- In a democratic republic, those with the most impeccable character are chosen to bear the responsibility of protecting democracy, known as Guardians.
- As a Guardian, you are expected to have impeccable character every day.
The S.P.E.A.R. Model for Ethical Behavior
- The S.P.E.A.R. model is inspired by the Spartans' code of honor, which served as a guide to behavioral expectations.
- Most organizations have an honor code, values statement, and/or a mission statement that outlines ethical expectations.
The Amygdala Hijack
- The amygdala is a part of the brain that senses danger and triggers an alarm, shutting off higher-level thinking parts of the brain.
- This can lead to excessive force or courtesy complaints, as individuals may not think rationally during this response.
- To counteract this, individuals must look out for each other and intervene when necessary.
Leader Armor for Law Enforcement
- Leaders must arm themselves with the SPEAR model to ensure ethical behavior and prevent the amygdala hijack.
- Leaders must set an example by modeling ethical behavior and drawing clear lines of acceptable behavior.
- Leaders must be willing to intervene when necessary to prevent excessive force or unethical behavior.
Professionalism and Respect
- Professionalism is key to being a respected and effective law enforcement officer.
- This includes maintaining a professional appearance, behavior, and knowledge.
- Treating others with respect can lead to a release of serotonin, promoting happiness and reciprocity.
- Playing the odds by starting with respect can increase the likelihood of positive interactions.
Test your knowledge on the responsibilities and expectations of guardians in a democracy, as discussed by Plato. Explore the concept of impeccable character and the role of law enforcement in society.
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