Factually! with Adam Conover We Have a Warped View of Crime with Jeff Asher
Jan 8, 2025
Jeff Asher, a leading crime data expert and co-founder of AH Datalytics, dives into the stark contrast between public perception and actual crime statistics in America. He reveals how political narratives distorted the truth, fostering unfounded fears about rising crime rates. They discuss the complexities of crime reporting, biases in data collection, and the importance of accurate statistics for criminal justice reform. Asher also emphasizes the urgent need for better crime data collection methods to dispel misinformation and enhance public understanding.
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Crime Perception vs. Reality
- Public perception of crime often differs drastically from actual data.
- This disconnect fuels fear and misinformed policy decisions, hindering criminal justice reform.
Ambiguity of "Crime"
- The term "crime" is poorly defined, encompassing both major offenses and subjective perceptions of disorder.
- This ambiguity makes it challenging to assess crime trends accurately.
Homelessness and Crime Perception
- While homelessness isn't a crime, it fosters a sense of disorder and unease.
- This perception contributes to inflated crime fears, even without actual criminal activity.