Epistemology of police sciences

Abstract

This article analyzes how Johannes Hessen's epistemology can underpin the scientific validity of police practices aimed at the preservation of public order, contributing to the consolidation of Police Sciences as an autonomous scientific field. Starting from the identification of historical challenges—such as the dichotomy between "science of the police" and "science for the police", the lack of clear definition of object and method, and the incipient endogenous scientific production within police organizations—the study proposes incorporating Hessen’s epistemological foundations, especially the concept of truth as correspondence and the articulation between formal and material logic, as a way to overcome technical empiricism and validate police expertise as applied scientific knowledge. Based on an integrative literature review of national and international studies, the pertinence of this framework to qualify police practices and strengthen their scientific and social legitimacy is demonstrated. The experience of the Military Police of Santa Catarina (PMSC), through the establishment of the Military Police Faculty (FAPOM), stands out as an example of the institutionalization of reflective practice and endogenous scientific production, signaling a strategic movement towards the modernization and enhancement of police institutions. It is concluded that Hessen's epistemology provides a solid foundation for affirming Police Sciences as a legitimate and essential field for strengthening public security and promoting fundamental rights.

Key words: police sciences; epistemology; Johannes Hessen; public order; endogenous scientific production.