Advantages and Unaccounted Benefits of The Broken Windows Theory

The broken windows theory is a criminological concept positing that visible signs of disorder, such as crime, antisocial behavior, and civil disarray, negatively affect urban environments by encouraging further disorder and more serious crimes. Since its introduction, this theory has achieved measurable success, demonstrating clear advantages. However, improper implementation can lead to unintended negative consequences, and there remain unexplored aspects of the theory.

Targeting Minor Crimes for Long-Term Impact

The broken windows theory primarily addresses minor crimes, such as vandalism, jaywalking, turnstile jumping, and littering, which are tackled through authority intervention or community involvement. Authorities should take this into account, as small infractions can quickly escalate into more serious antisocial behaviors if left unchecked. By addressing these minor issues early on, a potential chain reaction can be halted, preventing severe crimes from emerging. A notable example is New York City’s crime decline in the 1980s and 1990s, when the city's administration adopted several principles of the broken windows theory. The New York Transit Authority hired George L. Kelling as a consultant, leading to the consistent cleaning of subway cars, removal of litter, and apprehension of turnstile jumpers. These measures significantly improved safety in the subway system and reduced crime rates, requiring fewer resources than catching individual criminals.

Economic and Social Benefits of Implementing the Broken Windows Theory

Implementing policies based on the broken windows theory can transform neighborhoods, making them more attractive for tourism, fostering community engagement, and stimulating real estate growth, potentially even leading to gentrification. Fixing "broken windows" can reduce crime, attract wealthier residents, and create a more investment-friendly environment, ultimately boosting the city's economy. Ceccato and Wilhelmsson (2011) suggest that a sense of safety increases property values; their study of Stockholm shows that a 1% increase in crime rates in a specific area correlates with a 0.04% decrease in apartment prices.

Misapplications of the Theory and Their Consequences

In some instances, implementing the broken windows theory has had negative consequences due to overemphasis on policing and giving excessive authority to law enforcement. This approach led to violent policing practices, particularly targeting minorities, especially Black individuals, who were often stereotyped as criminals without cause. This led to further discrimination and perpetuated harmful stereotypes. Now, many experts agree that alternative methods within the theory should be considered.

According to Kleinenberg (2018), the government should focus on addressing root causes of crime, such as poverty, neglected buildings, and littered areas. By removing elements that encourage lawbreaking, even law-abiding citizens are less likely to succumb to antisocial behaviors. For example, if cigarette butts and litter are regularly cleaned up at a bus stop, others are less likely to add to the litter. Similarly, neglected buildings often attract homeless individuals, drug dealers, and unlicensed gun owners, increasing crime rates in the area. Kleinenberg also advocates for instilling a sense of social responsibility from childhood, creating a culture where law-abiding behavior is the norm. Consequently, addressing minor behavioral disorders, removing potential crime factors, and fostering responsible future generations are all essential components of a safer urban environment.

Conclusion

The broken windows theory has proven effective in preventing serious crimes by addressing minor infractions. Additionally, implementing these policies can spur economic growth in neighborhoods. Nevertheless, the theory’s negative side effects reveal the need for careful application and consideration of alternative approaches. By emphasizing community-focused and preventative measures, the broken windows theory could achieve lasting positive impacts without fostering unintended harm.