Disasters and Life in Anticipation of Slow Calamity: Perspectives from the Colombian Andes

The book explores community narratives concerning life in the face of creeping calamities through a case study from the Colombian Andes, questioning whether community resilience is a useful concept in the context of slow-onset geological hazards. It raises new questions on the nature of disasters and calamities and how we experience them, appealing to academics in disaster research, geography, and natural hazards.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 137 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book delves into the intricate tapestry of community narratives surrounding life in the face of encroaching calamities, utilizing a case study from the breathtaking Colombian Andes. Its mission is to unravel the enigmatic lived experience of disasters, both those that have unfolded gradually and those that remain mere possibilities in the future. This profound exploration challenges the notion of community resilience as a viable concept in the realm of slow-onset geological hazards, where few viable solutions exist. It compels us to contemplate the complexities of resettlement and displacement in the context of these slow calamities, presenting unique challenges primarily related to their lower political salience compared to emergencies. Moreover, the book extends its reach to encompass the broader implications of climate change, raising thought-provoking questions about the nature of disasters and our collective experiences. By venturing into uncharted territories, it unravels the complexities and tensions surrounding governance and governmentality. This interdisciplinary blend of practice-oriented and conceptual reflections will captivate academics engaged in postgraduate and postdoctoral research in social sciences, particularly in the fields of disaster research, geography, and research centered on natural hazards and disasters.

Weight: 281g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032105987