Most cops do not join over some idea that they are making the world a better place because they graced the world with their presence.
Most of them become a cop for the pay and retirement benefits.

This is the same with most firemen.

They get high pay, great benefits, and most cases great retirement.
They are highly trained with continued education.
All at the cost of the tax payer, who gladly pay for the service.

I do not like putting anyone on a pedestal for some false idea that they are some how the greatest people that we have just because they were benevolent enough to be a cop or fireman.

I have use the word most a few times because there are a few out there that believe in the greater good that has been drilled into our heads about police god like powers.