Thresholds of Crisis: Exploring the Appellation and Backwash of Disasters vs. Catastrophes

Abstract

This paper examines the theoretical and working differences between disasters and catastrophes based on the language used in their definitions, the response methods, economic losses, and the recovery approaches chosen. Catastrophe and disaster are often viewed as synonyms, although these two are at different extremes with different attributes and impacts. Thus, based on historical and modern material analysis, this paper estimates how scale, scope, and severity define these two phenomena and the responses from governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations. In addition, it looks into the psychological and societal backwash of each term to determine the effects of perception and media portrayals regarding community robustness and policy-making. The present study points to a more refined classification of crises' severity to help increase the readiness and effectiveness of measures for handling crises. This allows the optimization of management models according to the type of crisis. Consequently, this research adds to the knowledge of disaster studies by affording a more nuanced consideration of terminological effects to advance policy revisions that are responsive to the requirements of diversified levels of crises.