Ali Asgary, professor of Disaster and Emergency Management, co-wrote an article in The Conversation emphasizing the importance of discussing disasters as a key strategy for improving preparedness and planning. The article explains that the way we think about disasters is shaped by political rhetoric, media and culture. Historically, disasters were once thought to be caused by the gods, but today they are seen as the result of human actions. Disasters that are sudden, rather than slow-onset disasters caused by things like climate change, are often given more media coverage, but a more holistic approach must be taken to understanding how they can be prevented.
Asgary is an expert in disaster, emergency and business continuity management and has been actively involved in research, teaching and professional activities in these fields since 1993.
Read the full article in The Conversation.