Curious to see how you all perceive the use of the word COP vs POLICE, or POLICE OFFICER.
I feel the word COP is overused and over time seems derogatory in how it's used, especially when used by media covering an event like a mass shooting.
On the other hand, it's really not that big a deal, but I'd prefer at least the media to use the POLICE at the very least in all matters.
Just my opinion.
I have actually seen Law Enforcement Officer used more lately then ever before. Frankly I could care less they all mean the same thing. All mean great Americans serving the community's that all should be respected and honored!
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(10-01-2015, 01:56 PM)jfergus7 Wrote: [ -> ]Frankly I could care less they all mean the same thing. All mean great Americans serving the community's that all should be respected and honored!
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Agreed. Although, when speaking directly to them, I call them Officer. It's a tough job. They deserve our respect.
In a general discussion I use Law Enforcement Officer or Police. When driving and I see a radar trap I say cops to myself. Out of respect face to face it's always Officer.
In my Criminal Justice classes, we usually use cop and I have had quite a few as classmates. I've also worked with a few over the years who referred to themselves as cops. With that said, if you're on the business end of an encounter with the police it's always smart to call them officer, sir, or ma'am, whichever is most appropriate. I wouldn't recommend calling a male cop ma'am, lol.
(10-01-2015, 01:50 PM)ssphoto Wrote: [ -> ]Curious to see how you all perceive the use of the word COP vs POLICE, or POLICE OFFICER.
I feel the word COP is overused and over time seems derogatory in how it's used, especially when used by media covering an event like a mass shooting.
On the other hand, it's really not that big a deal, but I'd prefer at least the media to use the POLICE at the very least in all matters.
Just my opinion.
I usually hear and read law enforcement referred to as "The Authorities". I'm not sure why it's used, it could mean anyone in charge of anything. In a mass shooting Authorities could be the CEO, President, Principle, Owner etc.
I have a good friend that most of you know, and he's a "cop". I usually call them police officers. Cop is still not bad compared to what they were called in the hippies days of the 60s.
(10-04-2015, 06:23 PM)mikereddot Wrote: [ -> ]I have a good friend that most of you know, and he's a "cop". I usually call them police officers. Cop is still not bad compared to what they were called in the hippies days of the 60s.
I'm glad the 60's-70's are well in the past. The downside is I'm way too much older now, almost ancient..
A little known fact - People usually refer to Law Enforcement with the blanket title "Officer" when face to face. While this is not disrespectful, it is, in some circumstances, incorrect. When speaking to a Deputy Sheriff, they are not "officer".. but "Deputy." Some will correct you, most don't care.
Then perhaps just use "sir" and cover it.
Sir, always seems appropriate, unless you see strips on their sleeves...