Handbook of Disaster Research

This Handbook explores the social constructs of disasters, offering interdisciplinary insights and addressing methodological challenges in disaster research.

The Handbook of Disaster Research presents a comprehensive exploration of the concept of disaster through a social science lens. It emphasizes the idea that disasters are not merely natural events but are shaped by social constructs and human experiences. This perspective allows for a deeper understanding of how communities respond to and recover from disasters, highlighting the importance of social dynamics in these situations.

This Handbook also addresses various conceptual issues surrounding the definition of 'disaster' and the implications this has for research methodologies. It encourages researchers to think critically about their approaches and the tools they use, including Geographic Information Systems, which are highlighted as particularly valuable for examining disaster-related data. The interdisciplinary nature of the work ensures that insights from various fields are integrated, providing a richer understanding of disasters and their impacts.

As the first collection of its kind, the Handbook of Disaster Research not only reflects the current state of disaster research but also sets the stage for future developments in the field. It serves as a vital resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike, fostering collaboration and innovation in disaster research and response strategies.