A taxonomy of law enforcement decision support systems

The term “decision support system” is a recent one in the vocabulary of computer-based information systems. Because of increasing dependence of law enforcement agencies on computers to manage much of their data and produce in increasing amount of their information, the concept of decision support systems is an important one. This article presents a framework for classifying the data-processing tools used in providing the information necessary to support law enforcement. This raxonomy differentiates between the clerical functions of an electronic data-processing system and the decision-making orientation of a decision support system. DSSs are not in widespread use in law enforcement because they are difficult to understand, priorities for computerization often minimize or do not include applications conducive to DSSs, and the value of these systems is sometimes difficult to see. The framework described will help agencies map the development of their systems, determine what areas conducive to computerization are being emphasized and which are lacking, and recognize the planning considerations necessary for expansion into the DSS area.     

Toward a public choice theory of monopoly regulation

This paper benefited from valuable comments when presented at the Sixth Annual Conference of the Rutgers University Advanced Workshop in Public Utility Economics and Regulation at Bolton Landing, New York in May 1987.     

Accepting Conflict and Experiencing Creativity: Teaching "Concertation" Using La Francilienne CD-ROM

This article discusses the use of the La Francilienne CD-ROM, which I developed with my colleague Alain Lempereur, law professor at ESSEC Business School, near Paris. As a professor in the ESSEC Department of Environment, I use the CD-ROM as the basic tool for my course "Concertation, Decision, and Local Democracy." The CD-ROM's simulation of a public negotiation process for a highway project allows me not only to teach basic concepts and methods of negotiation and mediation but also to enhance two important concepts in public decision processes in planning and environment: conflicts and creativity. The students are given the opportunity first to experience, and then to discuss, conflict and creativity in a quasi-real setting. These experiences and discussions encourage an internal change process for the students and help them to integrate the negotiation and mediation concepts and methods taught. This internal change will be conceptualized in this article according to two educational theories: transitional thinking theory and experiential learning theory.     

Polygraphs: Erosion of the privacy right

The polygraph is a machine which invades previously private regions in the human being. Its operation is often viewed simplistically and lacking in danger. Such naivete is the subject of this comment. The paper considers the mechanics of polygraph operation, and its theoretical basis; the legal admissibility of the polygraph in a variety of settings, and lastly the impact the polygraph has upon our private lives.Clearly, the polygraph intrudes on the private regions of each individual, and this frightening fact is cause enough to consider the human, social and constitutional implications of its use. The project considers the reliability factor of the polygraph and its questionable use in personnel and business settings; its use in disciplinary procedures and labor arbitration, as well as reviews its place in judicial process and criminal review.Most critically the paper attempts to arrive at a constitutional basis for restrictions on its use in the private sector. Ingenious arguments have been made by opponents of the polygraph, and this paper reviews the substance and content of these constitutional arguments.