Thanks, Sarah:
I've had much success in *applying* key sociological concepts/theories
in analyzing/explaining aspects of the aftermath of Katrina. A few
examples:
- Unanticpated negative consequences of actions (Iraq War, using
Natl. Guard for fighting a foreign war instead of for what they were
intended, tax breaks for super rich resulting in drastic cut in funding
for levees, etc.).
- Structural changes. (decrease of division of labor).FEMA being
merged into Homeland Security Dept. resulting in diminution of their
effectiveness.
- Symbolic Interaction: *Meanings* peoples' homes and neigborhood
had for them resulting in their reluctance to leave.
- Many, many more could be cited.
Several students buttressed my points by giving concrete empirical
examples. One student said her husband, a member of the PA Natl. guard
had to wait a week before being sent to the stricken area because
aircraft from Iraq had to be sent her for transporting his unit.
Michael
Sarah Murray wrote:
Hi all,
I am using a recording of an
interview with New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin taken from Air America Radio
in the immediate aftermath, in which he plainly and poignantly
describes the abandonment of his city by the administration, his
frustration and anger over the priorities of our nation and over its
social division, and an explanation for the desperation that led to
looting.
I hope that future editions of the
book I'm using, Barbara Chasin's Inequality and Violence in
America: Casualities of Capitalism, will include mention
of this catastrophe.
Sarah Murray
William Paterson U of NJ
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