Overview
This submodule we finish our introduction to the history of natural disasters by looking at how ideas about nature and natural disasters in the Atlantic world changed at the end of the eighteenth century with the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755. Looking at this disaster, we consider the following questions: How did the Lisbon earthquake help to transform popular conceptions of natural disasters? How did this shift help to shape contemporary understandings and analysis of natural disasters and the damage they cause? About the role of human agency in natural disasters? How do these new interpretations shape the way we think about natural risk? About individual and social responsibility to prepare for natural risks? About the responsibilities of state and societies to assist the victims of natural disasters?
- Begin by reading the primary source accounts of, and responses to, the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755. (Readings Folder):
- An Account of the Late Dreadful Earthquake and Fire which destroyed the City of Lisbon, the Metropolis of Portugal. In a Letter from a Merchant Resident there to his Friend in England
- Voltaire, “Poëme sur le désastre de Lisbonne, ou Examen de cet axiome: Tout est bien”
- Jean-Jacques Rousseau, “Letter to M. de Voltaire”, 18 August 1756
How does each author interpret the cause of the earthquake and the human tragedy it has caused? Does each author share the same interpretation and opinion? How do these interpretations compare to those encountered in the week one-two readings? Identify 2 (two) quotes from each text that you think are representative of their overall perspective. Transcribe them in full (with page numbers).
- Next read these contemporary analyses of the importance of the Lisbon Earthquake and the debate between Voltaire and Rousseau:
- Russell Dynes, “The Dialogue between Voltaire and Rousseau on the Lisbon Earthquake: The Emergence of a Social Science View,” International Journal of Mass Emergencies and Disasters 18,1 (Mar. 2000): 97-115.
- A. Betâmio de Almeida, “The 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and the Genesis of the Risk Management Concept,” in Mendes-Victor, et al., Lisbon Earthquake: Revisited, pp. 147-165.
How, in the opinion of these authors, did the Lisbon earthquake help to transform popular conceptions of natural disasters? Transcribe 4 (four) quotes from each text (include page numbers) that you think is important for understanding the overarching argument of each author about impact of the Lisbon earthquake and debate for contemporary perspectives on natural risks, natural disasters, and risk management. You will include these quotes in your discussion board post.
- Then, reading the last two assigned readings, paying particular attention to the definitions of natural disasters and vulnerability that each one offers. Transcribe 4 (four) quotes from each text (include page numbers) that you think are important for understanding the author’s definition and arguments. You will post these to the 1.4 Earthquakes, Fires, and Tsunamis Discussion Board.
- Finally, consider the following: How do you think this shift in thinking about natural disasters also changes that way that individuals are expected to anticipate risk and prepare for natural disasters? How do you think it impacts the way that states and societies think about which victims are deserving of aid and what kind of aid and assistance should be given to these victims? Write up your thoughts into a 250-300 word reflection pieces
- comment on at least two of your classmates’ blog posts. In your comment identify how your map analysis is similar or different from theirs. Also mention something that you’ve learned from their analysis or has helped you to think about the materials in a new way.