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SECURITY
“In this era, humans have been cut loose from ancient moorings of meaning and purpose.” (Carroll*)
Nowadays we can observe many states, where investments in armed power are highly rising and various security measures taken are constantly growing yet violence does not decrease. The “face” of authority*, who has the right to exercise that power, is changing. For example the increasing numbers of private security companies – representing authority – have become part of our daily lives. Today’s obsession with security could mean that there is an urge for safety.
It would seem then that our planet is becoming more and more dangerous?
Do the increasing degrees of security and control lead to more safety or do they only create the feeling of security, rather than actual security? For instance “national security” is a powerful phrase, “because it promises something that is impossible, since the human condition is by definition insecure.” (Carroll).
On a global scale the law enforcement officer or the “Man” of Security is wearing in many cases rather darker colors, even though studies have shown that dark uniforms subconsciously create negative images in citizens. “Although color of dress is known to influence interpersonal behaviors and perceptions in the social psychology literatures, study of how variation in the color of the police uniform may affect citizen perceptions of the police is lacking” (Nickels). If the role of a security officer (police officer) is to create a positive public image and promote community support, the color scheme of the uniform may be preventing the officer from successfully exercising his role.
The project “SECURITY” explores the meaning of authority and security, their role in today’s environment, and particularly their relationship with color.
It is a mean to imagine authority differently and to propose other possibilities for promoting security.
* Carroll, James, “The ghost story”, IHT, 26.02.2008
* authority; from Latin auctoritas, from auctor ‘originator, promoter’
* Nickels, Ernest, “Police Uniform Color and Public Perceptions”. Conference Paper. Society of Crimonology. 01 Nov. 2006
