I believe the most promising aspect of research into community dynamics has been the evidence that disorder and crime increase transience. We have long ago established that poverty is highly correlated with crime. If we buy into the idea that middle class flight from disorderly neighborhoods will increase poverty in a neighborhood, then we can establish a viable economic theory. That all depends. In the absence of an overarching theory to explain things, the police will have to come up with innovative solutions for the specific problems they face in their daily work.
POP essentially applies the scientific method to solving problems.
As a social scientist, I think it's a good idea. Be sure to include your name and affiliation. Legitimate requests for anonymity will be honored. The Chronicle maintains Colloquy as an open forum where readers can comment on issues. Submissions may be condensed or edited for clarity, but editing is kept to a minimum.