Mega-Crises: Understanding the Prospects, Nature, Characteristics and the Effects of Cataclysmic Events

ccthomas.com; 388 pages; $59.95.

Mega-crises are not a new phenomenon in human history; however, advances in mass communication and other technologies bring the news of disasters to billions of people much more quickly. Some would argue that natural and man-made events have been larger and more costly in the last century. With the increases in population and globalization, a large-scale disaster can impact people all around the world. This compilation of essays examines some of the most well-known disasters of the past 25 years. The authors present detailed analyses of natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, as well as man-made crises, like terrorism, economic meltdowns, and civil unrest. Every disaster provides lessons that can benefit those who will manage future events.

This book does a great service to security and emergency management professionals by providing a concise accounting of the mentioned disasters, along with historical context for a better overall understanding. The contributors also showcase a diverse handful of high-profile industries/venues and their associated threats and vulnerabilities, including the Olympic Games, energy grids, supply chains, and the Internet.  

Mega-Crises: Understanding the Prospects, Nature, Characteristics and the Effects of Cataclysmic Events is well written and well suited for security generalists and emergency management professionals. In order to prepare for the disasters and mega-events of the future, it’s imperative that security and emergency practitioners apply lessons learned from past events.

  
Reviewer: Kevin Siegmund, CPP, PSP, is IT technical project engineer at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center. He is a member of ASIS International