03 November 2010
The study of natural disasters from an anthropological viewpoint reveal a reality that differs markedly from the clichés we see in the media. This reality is uncovered in the work by Sandrine Revet on the mudslides that destroyed the cost of Venezuela in December 1999. By looking at this event in the local context, she describes how survival, aid and reconstruction activities are organised.
2. Historical background
3. Ethnography of a disaster
4. Reconstruction
5. Ethnography of private international organisations
6. With hindsight, how do you view your work as head of mission?
7. Have new social categories emerged after the disaster?
8. Difference between figures; certainty or estimate?
9. Emergency burials : in which conditions?
10. Are statistics about casualties systematically inflated?
11. Statistics as a lever for international mobilisation and fundraising?
12. Are there any efficient prevention programmes?