City Journal Audio Who We Are: Crime and Public Safety
Jan 7, 2026
Heather Mac Donald, a conservative commentator and fellow at the Manhattan Institute, dives into pressing issues of crime and public safety. They discuss the effectiveness of Broken Windows policing in revitalizing New York City and how public-order enforcement fosters safer communities. The conversation critiques the limited focus on violent crime, urging acknowledgment of disorder's broader implications. They also explore the complex interplay of race and policing, arguing that better accountability measures can enhance public trust and community safety.
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Order As A Core City Function
- Public order enforcement restores civic life by preventing visible disorder that drives fear and flight.
- George Kelling's broken-windows idea pushed cities to treat order as a core municipal function.
Small Crimes Reveal Big Criminals
- Low-level offenses cluster with serious offending because high-rate offenders commit many lawbreaking acts.
- Targeting disorderly behaviors helps detect guns, warrants, and violent offenders unexpectedly.
Use Discretion To Prevent Escalation
- Give police discretion to intervene informally rather than defaulting to arrest for minor disorder.
- Use measured responses like warnings or pouring out alcohol to prevent escalation to violence.
