The Grounding Theories of My Research
The Broken Windows Theory argues that visible signs of disorder promote further, more extreme disorder. Utilizing the Broken Windows Theory, the NYPD targets low-level crimes in certain neighborhoods, establishing a continuous surveillance presence that influences community perceptions of safety and trust. Additionally, Edwin Lemert’s Labeling theory describes how once someone is labeled as “deviant” or criminal, they are stigmatized and often decline into further crime. Ross Matsueda argues, “Regardless of whether a person is objectively deviant or not, if that person is defined as deviant, negative consequences will result.” Both of these theories expose a type of self-fulfilling prophecy in which NYPD classifies certain neighborhoods as deviant and “creates” crime in the area. The increased police presence as well as the label of deviance creates crime, justifying the continued presence of police and creating a cycle of surveillance.
I am a computer science and sociology student at Barnard College. I am particularly interested in the intersection of these subjects, researching how surveillance technologies affect specific communities throughout New York City. I want to explore the ways that surveillance technologies affect community members' perceptions of safety, trust, and belonging.
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