Undermining Ethics: Unmasking the Deterioration of Ethics through Misuse of Power and Authority in Policing

The Stanford Prison Experiment was a psychological study conducted by Philip Zimbardo in 1971 to investigate the effects of perceived power and authority on individuals' behaviors. 

The experiment highlighted how the misuse of power and authority, even in a controlled and artificial environment, can lead individuals to engage in unethical behavior and perpetrate acts of cruelty against others. It illustrated the potential for individuals in positions of power to succumb to their roles and disregard the well-being and rights of those under their authority.

The Stanford Prison Experiment serves as a significant example of understanding the potential dangers and ethical implications of the misuse of power and authority, providing insights into the psychological mechanisms that can lead to the deterioration of ethical standards in various contexts, including policing.

The circulation of video footage capturing the unethical conduct of Police Officer Sheila has sparked significant attention both in the news media and on social networking platforms. These videos, rapidly spreading across various social media channels, depict Sheila engaging in demeaning behavior towards fellow officers and the public. Despite her impeccable oratory skills, her disrespectful responses toward certain individuals and situations have severely damaged her reputation.

It is important to note that the establishment of the Integrity and Standards Compliance Department (JIPS) within the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) serves a crucial purpose in promoting integrity, combating corruption, and ensuring ethical behavior among police personnel. JIPS plays a vital role in reinforcing internal oversight, enhancing professionalism, and fostering public trust in the police force. This agency's establishment is particularly significant in addressing concerns related to the decline of ethical standards within the Malaysian context and monitoring officers who may be involved in such behaviors.

The recent incident involving Police Officer Sheila highlights the importance of JIPS' mandate, as it is responsible for upholding and enforcing ethical conduct within the RMP. By maintaining vigilance and addressing issues that erode ethical standards, JIPS contributes to restoring public confidence and reinforcing the values of integrity, professionalism, and accountability within the police force.

Written by: Priyadarshini Nadaraj