US Cities Grapple with Growing Public Disorder

Stark contrast between American cities and global norms raises concerns about mental health crisis and lack of public order

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A recent account from a traveler highlights the stark contrast between the growing public disorder in many American cities and the cleanliness and safety maintained in other nations. This breakdown of public order, rooted in a difference in cultural values and approach to mental health and addiction, is impacting urban planning, development, and the overall quality of life for residents.

Why it matters

The decline in public order not only affects the aesthetics of cities, but also has far-reaching consequences on urban planning, economic development, and the overall wellbeing of communities. This crisis demands a re-evaluation of societal values, a renewed commitment to public order, and a willingness to address the underlying mental health and addiction issues driving much of the visible disorder.

The details

The traveler's observations in Seoul, where public spaces are meticulously maintained and even intoxicated individuals adhere to basic norms, stand in sharp contrast to the reality in many American cities. This difference is rooted in cultural values that prioritize collective well-being over absolute individual freedom. In the U.S., a strong emphasis on individual liberty has eroded the sense of shared responsibility for public spaces, leading to a situation where antisocial behavior is often tolerated or excused as a consequence of mental illness or addiction.

  • The traveler's account was documented in early 2026.

The players

United States

The country facing a growing epidemic of public disorder, in contrast to global norms.

Seoul

A city where public spaces are meticulously maintained and public order is the norm, as observed by the traveler.

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What’s next

Addressing this crisis will require a multifaceted approach, including increased investment in mental health and addiction services, stronger enforcement of public order laws, re-imagining public spaces, and a cultural shift towards collective responsibility.

The takeaway

The stark contrast between the public order in American cities and global norms highlights the need for a fundamental re-evaluation of societal values and a willingness to address the underlying mental health and addiction issues driving much of the visible disorder in order to restore a sense of safety and security in public spaces.