Three of the most important ethos emphasized by the police subculture are the ethos of bravery, the ethos of autonomy, and the ethos of secrecy. Certain cultural themes are emphasized in policing. Cultural themes are specific indicators of a common belief structure in the police occupation. An important cultural theme in policing is the idea that police are socially isolated from others in society. A second theme emphasizes the need for police solidarity and loyalty.
Postulates are statements of belief that reflect a group's basic orientations.
Postulates are used to guide and direct the actions of subcultural members. Three general categories of postulates function as guideposts for members of the police subculture. The first group of postulates reinforces the ethos of secrecy and the theme of solidarity. The second group of postulates supports police isolationism. These postulates advise officers to protect themselves by being wary of everyone, not to trust new officers until they have proven themselves, and not to trust superiors to look out for an officer's best interests.