Researchers have proved aspects of the “broken window” theory of crime. Graffiti causes more littering, graffiti causes theft, and litter causes more theft. The article points out that enforcing basic rules (e.g., littering) leads to other rules being followed. A corollary: unjust rules that cannot be enforced properly (e.g., drug laws) will lead to unenforced rules and will increase other crimes.
