Catastrophes and Cultures: Differing Approaches, Differing Responses

Abstract

Introduction:The Merriam-Webster Dictionary describes culture as “the customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group.” Also noted are: “the characteristic features of everyday existence (such as diversions or a way of life) shared by people in a place or time.” Much has been written about the impact of culture on disaster risk and response. However, the issues are complex and multifactorial.Method:The author/presenter extensively reviewed current qualitative and quantitative literature regarding the impact of culture on disaster phases of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.Results:There are over a thousand publications on the issue of culture and disaster. While it is clear culture plays a role in the phases of disaster management, there continues to be debate as to the weight which should be placed on culture, or whether it can be seen as separate from other elements which significantly impact phases of disaster, including political, economic, technologic, geophysical, etc.Conclusion:With subject matter expertise based on lived and academic experience, the presenter plans to utilize a tabletop format to engage small groups in discussion of the above concepts as well as their experiences relating to catastrophes and cultures. The hope is that this format will spur further translational research interest.