Shrugging off the unacceptable

From Hong Kong Is Showing Symptoms of a Failed State by Clara Ferreira Marques. Covering the impact of the coronavirus scare on Hong Kong and particularly how it is further deepening the distrust citizens have for their government.

Interesting update, but this line leapt out:

A fragile state is usually defined by its inability to protect citizens, to provide basic services and by questions over the legitimacy of its government.

Well, yes. I don't disagree. But that bare definition covers New York City, Detroit, Chicago, Baltimore, San Francisco, my home town Atlanta and many others. I don't think the definition is wrong.

I think it reveals how accustomed we have become at shrugging off the unacceptable.