Contemporary Issues in Public Disorder: A Comparative and Historical Approach

This book examines the causes and consequences of public disorder, using case studies from the US and UK to demonstrate the "flashpoints model" which explains that public disorder is most likely to occur when a group perceives its rights are being violated or denied. It also considers the assertion that media coverage can have an inflammatory effect on public disorder.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1992, delves into a comparative study encompassing material from the United States and Britain, aiming to examine the various forms of industrial, political, urban, and sectarian disorder that emerge. During the early 1990s, public disorder regained its prominence on the political agenda, yet it consistently faced confusion and misunderstanding. The public discourse was characterized by superficiality and emotion, resulting in limited valuable insights and offering no prospects for meaningful policy changes. This book presents the "flashpoints model," which explains that public disorder is most likely to occur when a group perceives its rights being violated or denied. The model is showcased through a series of captivating case studies, spanning both international and historical contexts, including British and American inner-city riots, sports spectator violence, and the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Specifically, it traces the expansion of police powers and assesses the effectiveness of democratic control over police behavior. Additionally, it explores the assertion that media coverage can contribute to the escalation of public disorder.

In the early 1990s, public disorder resurfaced as a significant concern on the political agenda, yet it consistently encountered confusion and misunderstandings. The public discourse was characterized by superficiality and emotion, resulting in limited valuable insights and offering no prospects for meaningful policy changes. This book presents the "flashpoints model," which elucidates that public disorder is most likely to occur when a group perceives its rights being violated or denied. The model is showcased through a series of captivating case studies, spanning both international and historical contexts, including British and American inner-city riots, sports spectator violence, and the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Specifically, it traces the expansion of police powers and assesses the effectiveness of democratic control over police behavior. Additionally, it explores the assertion that media coverage can contribute to the escalation of public disorder.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032042190