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Broken Windows, Sweaty Palms

By ambimb

A new study claims to have proven that the “broken windows” theory of crime is valid. The theory “takes its name from the observation that a few broken windows in an empty building quickly lead to more smashed panes, more vandalism and eventually to break-ins.” Although the theory has prevailed among many law and order types for decades it has apparently never been very well tested. Researchers in the Netherlands now say their tests prove that more crime happens in areas that are “disordered,” e.g., cluttered with litter, tagged w/graffiti, etc. The most dramatic result, though, was the one that showed a doubling in the number of people who were prepared to steal in a condition of disorder. In this case an envelope with a ?5 ($6) note inside (and the note clearly visible through the address window) was left sticking out of a post box...continue to full post

Full post as published by Public Defender Stuff on November 25, 2008 (boomark / email).