Assessing Urban Vulnerability and Social Adaptation to Risk
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
This paper argues that social cohesion plays an important part in a community’s ability to
respond to disasters. As a community invests more in social capital, it builds its adaptive
potential which allows it to make a better, more community-driven response. The paper uses the
case study of the Los Manguitos barrio in Santo Domingo to demonstrate a close-knit
community with high social capital coming together in the wake of Hurricane Georges in 1998.
While the case study is interesting, I feel that the author’s point could be made stronger
by contrasting Los Manguitos with an area of low social capital and discrediting alternate
explanations for the strong local response. What does local response look like in areas where
people don’t know their neighbors and aren’t involved in the community? Could the high level of
altruism be linked to the resident’s religion as opposed to their social interactions?
Pelling - Chapter 3 in The Vulnerability of Cities
This chapter focuses on human vulnerability as it applies to social adaptation in the face
of a disaster. It revisits the ideas of adaptive potential, and how it can apply to livelihoods.
Bull-Kamanga, et al - "From Everyday Hazards to Disasters"
This paper identifies some of the special considerations that must be given to disaster
management in urban areas, with a special emphasis on poverty-stricken areas. It also argues that
high-frequency small disasters are occurring everyday, even if they are not identified as disasters.
It concludes by advocating local involvement in disaster risk reduction.
In reading this, I wonder how impoverished communities view their own role in risk
reduction. Do day-to-day concerns outweigh their desire to be prepared for major disasters? How
do they view the government’s role of protecting them?
Pelling - "Natural Disasters"
This chapter analyzes what is meant by “natural disaster” and challenges some common
beliefs about the nature of disasters (for example, that chronic disasters are just as viable as
catastrophic disasters). It also provides several frameworks with which we can view disasters and
emphasizes the importance of the human component in response and mitigation. Pelling
concludes by recommending that we refocus attention from techno-engineering solutions to
humanistic solutions.
I agree with Pelling’s suggestion that disasters must be viewed through a humanistic lens.
I especially liked the following quote, as it made me rethink my own views on disasters: “it is
more accurate to refer to ‘natural disasters’ as humanitarian disasters with a natural trigger.”
UNDP-Reducing Disaster Risk
This report links natural disaster risk to levels of human development, showing how
urbanization can both positively and negatively impact risk, depending on management. It then
proposes a proactive risk-management approach to new urbanization and development.
I like the report’s treatment of risk as a quantifiable, measurable, and mitigatable entity,
but I wonder if its conclusions take into account the limitations and abilities of third-world
governments.
