Question Family
Could a City Feel Safer Because People Can See What Is Happening?
Visibility changes behavior before it changes outcomes.
A well-lit public square allows pedestrians to observe movement, traffic, and nearby activity.
The hidden mechanism is environmental transparency. People often feel safer when they can easily understand what is happening around them.
Visibility improves decision-making because fewer assumptions are required.
Safety is not only about reducing danger. It is also about reducing uncertainty about danger.