Book Review: The Rise of Security and Why We Always Want More

The Rise of Security and Why We Always Want More. By Mike Croll. Universal Publishers, Inc.; www.universal-publishers.com; 270 pages; $29.95. 

In The Rise of Security and Why We Always Want More, Mike Croll begins by writing “Security is a baggy term, although its essence is easy to define. Rooted in the Latin se—without, cure—care, it means without care or worry.” What Croll brings to this well-written book is how security is an evolutionary process, interweaving with a culture of preparedness, that changes almost daily. He also incorporates ideas regarding the need for security professionals and organizations to stay current to protect life and property.

In his introduction, he discusses the importance of both safety and security. He also incorporates Abraham Maslow’s 1943 “Hierarchy of Human Needs.” This hierarchy discusses self actualization, esteem, love and belonging, safety needs, and physiological needs. This interfaces nicely with laying the groundwork for the remainder of his book. 

Throughout the 15 chapters, Croll discusses topics such as the U.S. Aviation and Transport Security Act of 2001, business continuity, crisis management, cybersecurity, U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1970, and risk management.

The author also provides a history of security which allows the reader some context as to how the industry has evolved. In the fourth chapter, “Security for Sale,” Croll does an excellent job explaining how security and policing emerged in both London and New York City. His comparisons of both cities and the reasons for the increase in crime and policing are compared effectively. Police historians will find his overview of Jack Maple, the architect of a data-driven statistical approach to reducing crime, an interesting concept.  

The Rise of Security is well-written with advice focusing on the security practitioner and how the industry will continue to advance over the years.  

Reviewer: Kevin Cassidy lectures at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City and at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. He is also a member of ASIS International.