Disasters as Agents of Social Change in Recovery and Reconstruction

Abstract

This paper highlights a variety of studies on disaster recovery and reconstruction, some showing that political, economic, and social change is unlikely after disasters; some showing that change occurs frequently after disasters; and still others showing that both are true, depending on who you are. This paper examines the reasons for these findings and concludes by pointing out pitfalls and opportunities for both research and public policy regarding recovery and reconstruction.