Ashwin Anil, Period 8, 4/7/21, Day C

 Ashwin Anil

Modern Mythology
O4/27/21
Period 8

     One of the biggest issues of power revolves around people’s arrogance and it does dramatically affect the people in our lives and even worldwide. Sometimes people in positions of power feel they are above others and think it’s an excuse to mistreat others. One of those issues is concurrent with law enforcement. Some cops overuse their badge’s influence and think they are in the right. My father is a police officer and from his own experience, it’s apparent that a lot of police don’t remember that it’s their job to serve and protect us. Many of them think it’s appropriate to use excessive force in instances where it is completely unnecessary. One example is when my father was talking down to an emotionally distressed person but then they were suddenly tackled by an oncoming officer. Personal Safety is extremely important but it is not an excuse to overstep boundaries. It’s important that one is socially aware of the situation and know how to respond to certain issues. First responders need to have enough training through ride-along or courses that highlight de- escalation. It is tiring to see videos of police overusing their power against emotionally stressed people or even those that are complying.
      A lot of these issues have helped me become more socially aware of the problems other people face. I am currently studying to become an EMT and one thing we study is understanding the differences people tend to have due to their demographic. One example is that in textbook knowledge cardiac arrest is a crushing pain that can radiate to your arm. But there are common issues where women in cardiac arrest tend to have different symptoms. So it shows that our current knowledge of handling certain issues is outdated and that also comes with protocol as well.  It is imperative that people, especially those in power. are open to understanding the environment and the issues that people face rather than being cocky and following an outdated sociological compass. This would benefit the safety of them and those they are involved with.