The Politics of Disaster

Marvin Olasky talked about his book The Politics of Disaster: Katrina, Big Government, and a New Strategy for Future Crises, published by W Publishing Group. He argued that politicians use natural disasters for political gain rather than as an opportunity to improve the lives of victims. The author examined the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, suggesting how to reform the national disaster policy, and examining policies that place disaster relief burdens on businesses and faith-based organizations, who he thinks are better equipped than the federal government to respond to disasters. He blamed the government’s current system of filing reports and lengthy paperwork for causing failures of getting relief supplies to victims of Hurricane Katrina. After his presentation Mr. Olasky responded to audience members' questions. close