Disasters in World History

Benjamin Reilly

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Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Routledge
27 August 2024

General & world history; Natural disasters

Series: Themes in World History

Disasters in World History surveys the development of disaster studies as a discipline as well as presenting historical case studies and theories used by historians to understand disasters. Disasters, here defined as the complex interaction between natural hazards and specific human vulnerabilities, have frequently left a mark on human history. Cataclysms have toppled dynasties, fueled massacres, and shaped the culture of societies frequently affected by natural hazards. This volume fosters understanding of such events by considering both social science theory and the natural science concepts relevant to disaster studies. In addition, the text makes heavy use of an emerging psychological theory relevant to disaster studies: the behavioral immune system, which helps to explain why xenophobic behavior and even violence often erupt in the aftermath of disasters. Chapters consider specific examples of disasters: earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, climate change (including modern anthropogenic climate change or global warming), and tropical cyclones.

This book is an accessible resource, ideal for undergraduates and instructors in world history, environmental history, and disaster studies courses.

By: Benjamin Reilly
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 229mm, Width: 152mm,
Weight: 660g
ISBN: 9781032566955
ISBN 10: 1032566957
Series: Themes in World History
Pages: 258
Publication Date: 27 August 2024
Audience: College/higher education , Primary
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Introduction: What is a Natural Disaster? 1. The Science of Natural Disaster 2. Earthquakes 3. Tsunamis 4. Volcanoes 5. Climate Change 6. Tropical Cyclones Conclusion

Benjamin Reilly is a Teaching Professor of History and one of the founding faculty members of Carnegie Mellon University’s campus in Qatar. An environmental historian, Dr. Reilly is particularly interested in how humans interact with natural processes, especially disasters and infectious diseases.