A Call To Arms: The Militarization of Natural Disasters in the United States

<p>Natural disasters are an expected and uncontrolled part of history, and will continue and possibly worsen in the future. The humanitarian focus that has characterized disaster response throughout the years is changing, as is the way the federal government responds to large-scale natural disasters. In recent years, the primary concern in responding to these catastrophes has shifted from the well-being of citizens to the security and safety of the area impacted. Security and crime have become a main focus, with the military increasingly gaining a more prominent role in relief efforts. This thesis will provide evidence that the militarization of disaster response in the United States is a real phenomenon through a case study of Hurricane Katrina, and will delve into why the military has been used less as a support to civilian authorities and more as first responders. One of the key theories used as explanation is late modernity, which focuses on risk aversion and maintaining security. By focusing on policing the streets after a natural disaster, reporting on looting and crime, and keeping citizens in a controlled environment, our expectations after a natural disaster strikes have gone from lending a helping hand to ensuring surveillance and uncertainty about crime are the predominant focus. </p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Level thesis:degree_level

Master's

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Justice Studies

Grantor dc:publisher

Eastern Kentucky University

Year

2011

Author dc:creator

• Farmer, Ashley Katherine

• Disaster Response
• Late Modernity
• Militarization
• Criminology and Criminal Justice

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2011 Ashley Katherine Farmer

Repository record dc:identifier

https://encompass.eku.edu/etd/34

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:encompass.eku.edu:etd-1033