Which statement best captures James Q. Wilson's view on police behavior and community expectations?

• A. The community has no role in policing style.
• B. Police behavior is influenced by the style of service that is acceptable to and tolerated by the community.
• C. Police behavior is determined solely by internal ethics and training.
• D. Police behavior is primarily driven by political leadership.

Answer: (B)

James Q. Wilson emphasizes that police behavior mirrors what the community considers acceptable in terms of service and enforcement. He argues that officers adapt their approach to fit the style of policing the public will tolerate—whether a more service-oriented, informal approach or a strict, enforcement-focused one. In this view, community expectations effectively shape how police operate, so the behavior is not determined solely by internal ethics, training, or political directives. The best answer captures this dynamic by stating that police conduct is influenced by the service style that is acceptable to and tolerated by the community.