Broken windows theory
The broken windows theory is an idea that if somebody notices a broken window in a building and the window is not fixed, people will notice and then start to think that it is okay to break more windows. This can lead to more windows being broken and more crime happening in the area. To stop this, it is important to fix the broken window so people know that it will not be acceptable to break windows and that it will not be tolerated.
Related topics others have asked about:
Social proof,
Anti-social behaviour order,
Consent search,
Crime in New York City,
Crime prevention through environmental design,
Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution,
Graffiti abatement,
Legalized abortion and crime effect,
Parable of the broken window,
Pygmalion effect,
Racial profiling,
Safer Cities Initiative