Description
This course introduces students to an approach to understanding hazards and disasters grounded in social vulnerability analysis. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, it will examine historical, geographical, social, and cultural factors and conditions that put people differentially at risk before, during, and after disasters. In particular, the course will focus on global, national, regional, and local patterns of development. Drawing on current theory and research, field studies, class activities, and life experiences, students will explore how vulnerable social groups are affected by and cope with hazardous conditions and events, and strategies for community-based mitigation engaging those most at risk.