Broken Window Theory: Debunked?
What is the Broken Window Theory?
The broken window theory is a criminological theory that argues that keeping urban environments neat and tidy deters would-be criminals. The theory gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, and was used by New York City to design its policing strategy.
Malcolm Gladwell and the Broken Window Theory
Journalist Malcolm Gladwell helped popularize the broken window theory in his 2000 book, “The Tipping Point.” In the book, Gladwell argued that the theory could explain the dramatic decline in crime rates in New York City in the 1990s.
New Research Challenges the Broken Window Theory
However, recent research has challenged the validity of the broken window theory. A study published in the journal “Justice Quarterly” by New York University professor David Greenberg found that New York City’s historic decline in crime rates during the 1990s cannot be attributed to CompStat, the NYC police department’s dynamic approach to crime that was based on the broken window theory.
Key Findings of the Study
Greenberg’s study found that:
- There is no link between enhanced enforcement of misdemeanors and drops in felony charges.
- The number of police officers per capita and the rate of prison sentences doled out to criminals are not related to a reduction in violent crime.
- Misdemeanors increased in all but 11 precincts during the period studied, invalidating the theory’s basis.
- Felonies dropped consistently across the city, independently of a shrinking police force, imprisonment rates, or enforcement levels.
What Caused the Crime Decline in New York City?
Greenberg’s study does not provide an answer to the question of what caused the crime decline in New York City in the 1990s. However, he suggests that factors such as the city’s improving economy and demographic changes may have played a role.
Implications for Policing Strategy
The findings of Greenberg’s study have implications for policing strategy. They suggest that focusing on enforcing low-level offenses, such as broken windows, may not be an effective way to reduce more serious crimes. Instead, police departments may need to focus on other factors, such as improving community relations and addressing the root causes of crime.
Conclusion
The broken window theory has been a popular theory for explaining crime rates in urban environments. However, recent research has challenged the validity of the theory. More research is needed to determine what factors are responsible for crime declines in cities.
