In "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel, the narrative explores the implications of the broken-windows theory within the context of urban crime. This theory suggests that visible signs of disorder and neglect, such as abandoned buildings or graffiti, can encourage more serious criminal activity. The novel illustrates how a society's neglect of its environment fosters a feeling of decay, which can ultimately lead to chaos and a breakdown of community order.

The story also highlights how the deterioration of societal norms and the absence of governance can exacerbate such issues. As civilization collapses, the remnants of past urban life serve as a stark reminder of how quickly things can spiral out of control when the foundations of community and order are allowed to weaken. Through this lens, Mandel prompts readers to reflect on the importance of maintaining societal structures to prevent the rise of lawlessness and disorder.