The Psychology Behind Black Lives Matter Mass Protests

Afshin Rattansi speaks to Prof. Clifford Stott, the U.K. SAGE Committee Sub-Group Advisor. He discusses the psychology behind recent mass protests and riots, from the Black Lives Matter global movement, to the mass protests in Hong Kong, how inequality is a fundamental cause of these protests and how Coronavirus has only amplified inequality in the minds of people, how different policing responses against different racial groups fosters distrust and discontent, why crackdowns and repression ultimately do not work and more!

#BlackLivesMatter #BLM

STATEMENT FROM SCOTLAND YARD:

Scotland Yard spokesperson: “We understand that there are concerns across some communities that the use of the stop and search tactic during the Covid-19 lockdown has been deliberately aimed at certain groups.

“We would like to reassure communities that this is absolutely not the case.

“However, our use of stop and search over recent weeks has increased as additional resources have been placed into proactive patrols to tackle crime and keep London safe during this challenging period.

“All stop and search data is recorded and quality assured to ensure that searches are lawful and appropriate. This information is regularly shared with stop and search monitoring groups, and includes location and reason for the stop, in addition to the age, gender and race of the person stopped. The MPS monitors this data closely to understand where there is disproportionality, and to undertake suitable action where this is the case.

“We welcome any opportunity to discuss with local communities if they have a concern about stop and search or anything else with regards to their local policing area. We also encourage anyone to come forward if they are unhappy with any interaction with police, and there is also the option to make a formal complaint if preferred.”