[Darkwolf377]

Sure, but as you yourself point out, there are plenty of shows with good cops on them--the entire Law and Order group of shows, the CSI shows, many others. That's why The Shield is so interesting--it shows us something we've never seen, a show that STARS a dirty cop as the main character.

As you say, most cops are nothing like this. Which is why it's an interesting show. I see him as a kind of negative role model, showing how NOT to do it, which is why it's interesting. If there were nothing but dirty cops on TV, the show wouldn't be nearly so compelling.

[LegendHasIt]

Yeah, I guess you are right.....

Since I never watch any of those Law & Order / CSI type shows I missed the 'strategic implications'.