There is No Such Thing As ‘The Least’ Amount of Physical Force
The notion of the least amount of force sounds nice, which makes it deceptively easy to believe – however, the concept is inherently flawed When responding with force
Peace officers throughout the state of Washington are required to “use the least amount of physical force necessary to overcome resistance….” [1] In the past year, New Jersey reportedly imposed a prohibition against any use of physical force except as a last resort. While last resort refers to timing and least refers to the amount, the ideas are born of the same mother and are, therefore, closely related. This article focuses on the least amount, but many of the principles apply equally to the last resort.
The notion of the least amount of force sounds nice, which makes it deceptively easy to believe. However, the concept is inherently flawed. The contrivance defies logic and strict compliance is impossible. Imposed as a policy, or worse, as a law, it puts society’s protectors in an untenable predicament.
Except at a theoretical level and in a feel-good way, rule-makers who impose the concept of “least amount” don’t understand it. As evidence, they will struggle to answer the questions below. Try answering them yourself
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