Government Responses to Crisis (eBook)

When crises occur, citizens, media and policymakers alike expect government to respond and to take a leading role in recovery. Given the scale and scope of crises, whether natural (such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes), manmade (such as conflict and economic downturns), or often a combination of the two, governments are often seen as being in the best position to identify the problems, understand the circumstances, and direct action. They are also likely to be the entities that have adequate resources to devote to such large-scale efforts. Yet, governments are not spared from the effects of crises. They are composed of individuals who are impacted by disasters and face many of the same challenges in identifying needs, prioritizing action, and adjusting to changing circumstances. It is by no surprise that governments are also often scrutinized during and after crises. How, then, do we understand the capability of and proper role for governments to respond to crisis and to drive recovery?

This edited volume-comprised of chapters by accomplished scholars and seasoned practitioners in disaster and crises studies and management, spanning multiple disciplines including sociology, economics, and public administration-examines the roles, expectations, and capabilities of government responses to crises. It gives an overview of the literature, provides lessons learned from both research and experience on the ground during crises, and puts forth a framework for understanding crisis management and subsequent policy implications. It will be of use to any scholars, students, practitioners or policymakers interested in learning from and better preparing for crises and responding when they do occur. 

Stefanie Haeffele is Deputy Director, Academic and Student Programs and senior fellow, F. A. Hayek Program for Advanced Study in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, USA. She earned her M.A. and Ph.D. in economics at George Mason University and her B.B.A. from the University of North Alabama, and previously worked in emergency and disaster management at both the Federal Emergency Management Agency and then the US Forest Service as a Presidential Management Fellow. 

Virgil Henry Storr is Vice President, Academic and Student Programs, and Don C. Lavoie Research Fellow, F. A. Hayek Program for Advanced Study in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, USA. He also is Associate Professor of Economics at George Mason University. Dr. Storr received his Ph.D. in economics from George Mason University and his B.A. from Beloit College.