In the eyes of some contemporary authors, camera sciences appear to be a ‘success story’ of state-building. They then embody the first attempt in Europe, at the end of modern times, to systematise the study of public management and to establish a practical administration science, of which Germany would be the model. Contrary to these ideas, this book demonstrates a more complex reality of police and camera sciences in Europe from the 18th century to the 20th century and the importance of circulating government practices between the various European countries. This volume wonders how and how contemporary issues, such as state reforms, are posed and thought about.