The compleat advocate

Recognizing and analyzing a public policy problem is an important first step in impacting on its resolution. However, the more crucial and subtle steps are the subsequent ones of selection of means, implementation, evaluation and termination addressing the multi-phased policy decision process. The translation of knowledge created during the estimation phase of possible policy alternatives is a not very well appreciated activity, and this article sheds clear light on the essentials of how one might go about making this translation. Considered are some practical, hard-won lessons learned about becoming and being a public policy advocate. While the specific focus is on children's legislation, the principles invoked have more widespread applicability.     

Book reviews

Giovanni Arrighi, The Long Twentieth Century: Money, Power, and the Origins of Our Times, (Verso, London 1994). 414pp. ISBN 1–85984–015–9.

Iwen Morgan, Beyond the Liberal Consensus: A Political History of the United States, (Hurst, London 1994). 302 pp. ISBN 1–85065–204‐X.

Andrew Ross, The Chicago Gangster Theory of Life: Nature's Debt to Society, (Verso, London 1994). 308 pp. ISBN 0–86091–429–1.

S.Padgett (ed), The Development of the German Chancellorship: Adenauer to Kohl, (Hurst, London 1994). 204 pp. ISBN 1–85065–134–5.

Bryan D. Palmer, E.P. Thompson, Objections and Oppositions, (Verso, London 1994). 201 pp. ISBN 1–85984 975 X.     

Damage characteristics of fabrics created by TASER probes

TASER® weapons are conducted energy weapons (CEWs) that are frequently used by police departments around the world. CEWs can be deployed in two methods: drive stun application and probe deployment. This study aims to examine damages caused by TASER devices on fabrics and whether types of fabric material and TASER models could contribute to different damage features. Three types of white fabric were used, including 100% cotton, 100% polyester, and 65:35 polyester-cotton blend. Three models: TASER X26P, TASER X2, and TASER 7 were shot onto each type of fabric, with five repetitions each. Each damaged area on the fabric caused by a probe is a sample (n = 90) and was examined with a Keyence digital microscope. Images were captured by the Keyence microscope and measurements were recorded, including damage dimensions, fabric condition, evidence of burning, and extra findings. The presence of fused yarn ends was found to be statistically significant across the fabric types, and no damage features were found that may assist in the identification of TASER models. Other damage features including damage dimensions, discoloration, and fiber deformation were not found to be showing apparent differences according to statistical analysis. The conclusions made by this research should be used with caution due to the small sample size.