'It is unusual for a collection of essays to form such a seamless whole as in the case of Police Forces. Mladek has brought together a superb group of international scholars, whose contributions illuminate, often in startling ways, the history of the 'police' in reality and imagination. One is uncertain whether to praise the book more for the acuteness of ... Read moreits historical analyses or for its urgent contemporary relevance. This is an exemplary and pioneering contribution that will have a major impact on work in cultural studies.' - David E. Wellbery, University of Chicago 'By tracing the history of modern police activity, largely through a German lens, this illuminating volume helps us understand the central and expanding role of policing.More than law or even war-making, policing may be emerging as the primary field for the exercise of power in contemporary society.' - Michael Hardt, Duke University Show Less