LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Reading ComprehensionMedium
Passage: "The 'Broken Windows' theory of policing posits that visible signs of crime, anti-social behavior, and civil disorder create an urban environment that encourages further and more serious crime. Proponents argue that by addressing minor infractions like vandalism or loitering, law enforcement can prevent the escalation to more severe offenses, thereby improving overall public safety. Critics, however, contend that this approach often leads to over-policing of marginalized communities, disproportionately targeting specific demographics for minor offenses, and does not address the root causes of crime, such as poverty or lack of opportunity. Furthermore, empirical evidence regarding the theory's effectiveness in reducing serious crime remains mixed and contentious." Which of the following situations is most analogous to the 'Broken Windows' theory as described in the passage?
- AA company implements a strict dress code to improve employee morale and productivity.
- BA school increases security personnel and surveillance cameras to deter bullying.
- CA city invests in educational programs and job training to reduce crime rates.
- DA homeowner repairs a small crack in their foundation to prevent larger structural damage.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A homeowner repairs a small crack in their foundation to prevent larger structural damage.
The 'Broken Windows' theory suggests that addressing minor issues (broken windows) prevents larger problems (more serious crime). Analogously, repairing a small crack in a foundation (minor issue) is done to prevent larger structural damage (larger problem).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This focuses on morale and productivity, not preventing escalating problems from minor ones.
- B. This is about deterring a problem directly, not preventing an escalation from minor visible signs of disorder.
- C. This addresses root causes, which the passage notes as something 'Broken Windows' *doesn't* do, making it disanalogous.
Analogous Reasoning
Identifying a situation or relationship that is similar in structure or principle to one described in the passage, even if the specific content differs.
- Requires understanding the core principle of the concept in the passage.
- Looks for structural similarities, not literal matches.
- Often involves abstracting the relationship between elements.
Memory trick: Find the parallel link, the 'analog' match.