All Cops Are Bad?

Or some other Bad word?

In the absence of my daily ‘Reasons To Hate Capitalism’ notes this week, here is a collection of quotes about ACAB below:

Just ‘A Few Bad Apples’?

When we discuss public safety, we often focus on individual incidents or officers. But let's step back and look at the bigger picture: how does our current system actually work, and who does it truly serve?

We're often told police prevent crime, but reality is more complicated. They typically arrive after crimes occur. Real crime prevention, as many experts note, comes from addressing root causes: poverty, lack of healthcare, housing insecurity, and limited opportunities. When communities have their basic needs met, crime rates naturally decrease.

Despite record-high police budgets, many cities still struggle with crime. This suggests that simply funding more policing might not be the answer. What if we redirected resources toward prevention? Universal healthcare, public housing, strong unions, higher wages, universal childcare, and accessible education could address the root causes of many crimes. Creating healthy communities where people aren't fighting over basic resources naturally reduces violence.

This isn't about individual officers - it's about systemic issues. The question isn't whether we need public safety - of course we do. The question is whether our current system is the best way to achieve it. The evidence suggests we might need to fundamentally rethink our approach to creating safer communities for everyone.

Police Accountability & Double Standards

Selective Law Enforcement & True Priorities

Ineffectiveness of Policing

Coercion and Power Dynamics

Alternative Solutions

System Protection vs Public Service

Resource Allocation

Police Excuses

Police Brutality