Non-Lethal Weapons: The Potential and the Pitfalls

Use of non-lethal weapons by the police could significantly reduce the number of episodes involving deadly force. This paper discusses reasons why more effective nonlethal weapons have not been produced, noting in particular the priorities of military research. It also examines logistic barriers to more widespread adoption of non-lethal weapons, including the awkwardness of having the correct weapon on hand at the proper moment. The paper particularly focuses on the role of the ethos of law enforcement in generating resistance to the introduction and use of non-lethal weapons. Given the enormous social costs associated with police use of deadly force, a call is made for a more hospitable attitude toward non-lethal weapons by police personnel.