[Gustomaximus]

I've pondered on this and wonder if religion could be the answer. I say this as an atheist. But churches, typically already established well in these areas, could have the community structure combines with good social values and zeal/commitment, even fanaticism to see through what would likely be tough time initially to cleaning up areas.

Something along the lines of a Knights Templar where segment of a community devote themselves to the protection of people in the area. It might even give youth an alternative to avoid gangs as while jobs are scarce they can join a 'higher order' so have an alternative that provides purpose and a raise in self-status.

Note: I know nothing about these areas or problems really so approach this mental exercise from a position of ignorance and Hollywood.

[sam_goody]

To quote a speech I heard in college: "It frustrates me to no end that, as a species, the religious are more fit. Their communities are more structured, and have less crime and violence. Their families larger, more nuclear and more supportive of each other. Their members are more relaxed, and have more purpose to their lives.

Evolution would state that, eventually, only the religious will survive. If there is a God, He is laughing."

Nonetheless, I don't think that would help here - the society has passed critical mass of crime, the incentives are for everyone to be criminal, and religion itself would be subverted for its use.

[leephillips]

Religious communities may not be more fit. It depends on what measure you look at: http://moses.creighton.edu/JRS/2005/2005-11.pdf

[mensetmanusman]

Fit from an evolutionary standpoint, i.e. (especially now) only the religious are having replacement levels of children.