Which Lives Matter?: Factors Shaping Public Attention to and Protest of Officer-Involved Killings

The author argues that race is the most important factor shaping attention and mobilization in support of victims of officer-involved killings, with black victims being more likely to trend on Google and get protested than victims of other races. The deaths of low-threat black victims are more likely to affect political interest, voter turnout, and protest rates, particularly among young black observers. The local density of social justice organizations increases political mobilization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element delves into the compelling factors that drive the public to pay heed to and actively support the victims of officer-involved killings. The author makes a compelling argument that race plays a paramount role in shaping both the attention and mobilization garnered for these cases. Notably, black victims stand out as statistically significantly more likely to trend on Google and attract widespread protests compared to victims of other races. The tragic deaths of low-threat black individuals evoke a stronger response from political interest, voter turnout, and protest rates, particularly among young black observers. This Element attributes this pattern to the underlying issue of anti-Black discrimination rather than mere general sentiments about police violence. Furthermore, the research reveals that the local density of social justice organizations serves as a catalyst for heightened political mobilization.

Introduction:
The issue of officer-involved killings has garnered widespread attention and sparked intense debates in recent years. These incidents, where law enforcement officers use excessive force resulting in the death of a civilian, have raised concerns about the accountability and transparency of the police force. While the media and public discourse often focus on the individual circumstances of these cases, it is crucial to examine the broader factors that shape public perception and mobilization. This Element aims to explore the factors that lead the public to pay attention to and mobilize in support of victims of officer-involved killings.

Race as a Determinant:
The author of this Element argues that race is the most important factor shaping both attention and mobilization in cases of officer-involved killings. Black victims, in particular, face heightened scrutiny and mobilization efforts due to the historical and systemic discrimination they have faced. The author notes that black individuals are more likely to be subjected to police brutality, leading to a greater risk of fatal encounters. Furthermore, the media and public discourse often perpetuate stereotypes and biases against black individuals, further exacerbating their mistreatment and marginalization.

Google Trends and Protests:
The author observes that black victims are more likely to trend on Google, indicating increased public attention and interest in their cases. This trend is further reinforced by the widespread protests that often follow these incidents. Black victims are more likely to attract media coverage, public outrage, and political support, leading to more significant mobilization efforts. The tragic deaths of low-threat black individuals, in particular, evoke a stronger response from the public, as they highlight the disproportionate impact of police violence on marginalized communities.

Political Interest and Voter Turnout:
The deaths of black victims also have a significant impact on political interest and voter turnout. The research suggests that the mobilization around officer-involved killings is driven by a desire to address anti-Black discrimination rather than general sentiments about police violence. Black communities have long faced systemic inequalities and discrimination, and the deaths of their members highlight the urgent need for change. This increased political interest can translate into higher voter turnout, particularly among young black observers who are more likely to be politically engaged and aware of social justice issues.

Social Justice Organizations:
The local density of social justice organizations plays a crucial role in shaping political mobilization. These organizations are dedicated to advocating for racial justice and social equality and often play a vital role in organizing protests and raising awareness about officer-involved killings. The presence of these organizations in a community increases the likelihood of public participation and engagement in these cases. They provide a platform for individuals to express their concerns, share information, and mobilize support for the victims and their families.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Element highlights the significant role that race plays in shaping public attention and mobilization in cases of officer-involved killings. Black victims, due to their historical and systemic discrimination, face heightened scrutiny and mobilization efforts. The tragic deaths of low-threat black individuals evoke a stronger response from the public, as they highlight the disproportionate impact of police violence on marginalized communities. The local density of social justice organizations also plays a crucial role in shaping political mobilization, providing a platform for individuals to express their concerns and organize support for the victims and their families. It is essential to continue examining these factors and working towards a more just and equitable society that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of race.

Weight: 142g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108987295