Ateneo - UPO

The course explores the social and cultural dynamics that influence how communities interpret and respond to disasters and health crises. It focuses on two main aspects: disaster vulnerability and the role of social capital in recovery processes. By examining these dimensions, the course examines how disasters and health crises both shape and are shaped by social structures and dynamics. The course includes lectures by professionals working in disaster management and the humanitarian sector, who will present case studies and engage students in exercises and group work.

Trentin, M., Valente, M., Longo, E., Rubini, E., Bahattab, A., Facci, G., Ziliani, G., Carpentieri, L., Della Corte, F., & Ragazzoni, L. (2024). Being a migrant woman during disasters: A phenomenological study to unveil experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Milan, Italy, SSM - Qualitative Research in Health, 7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmqr.2024.100506 Wisniowski A et al. (2023) "The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ethnic minorities in Manchester: lessons from the early stage of the pandemic", Frontiers in Sociology, 8. 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1139258 Aldrich, D. P. (2011). The Externalities of Strong Social Capital: Post-Tsunami Recovery in Southeast India. Journal of Civil Society, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/17448689.2011.55344 Recommended readings: Tierney, K. (2025) "Disasters: A Sociological Approach", Polity Press (Introduction and Cap. 5) Anthony Oliver-Smith (2002), The social construction of disaster: Economic anthropological perspectives on the COVID-19 pandemic, Economic Anthropology, 9(11). https://doi.org/10.1002/sea2.12236

The course aims to equip students with advanced knowledge on the interpretation of disasters and health crises from a socio-anthropological perspective. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how responses to and recovery from such events are shaped by and, in turn, shape social dynamics. Through case studies and critical analysis, they will learn to apply these insights to real-world situations, enhancing their ability to approach disaster and health crisis management with a comprehensive mindset.

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The module uses a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, and case study discussions.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage:https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

The exam is written and in-person, and consists of a quiz with multiple-choice questions. The final grade is expressed in thirtieths, and to pass the exam, a student must achieve at least 18/30. To pass the exam, students must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of at least the fundamental concepts of the subject. To achieve a passing grade, students must be familiar with the main social determinants and consequences of disasters and health crises, and demonstrate the acquisition of the relevant basic notions of the sociology of disaster. To achieve a high grade, students must demonstrate complete mastery of the topics covered.

After introducing the sociology of disasters and analysing some basic concepts, the course will focus on: 1) disaster vulnerability, with particular attention to ethnic minorities’ vulnerability during the Covid-19 pandemic; 2) the role of social capital and its positive and negative effects, especially in recovery processes. Case studies from both Italian and international contexts will be used to illustrate these concepts. These examples will support the course by providing real-world applications of the theoretical discussions.

By the end of the course, students will be able to understand disasters and health emergencies as complex social phenomena, recognising their cultural and social determinants and impacts. Additionally, students, by considering the social and cultural components, will increase their ability to develop holistic and inclusive management strategies of disasters and health crises. Through case studies, they will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world events, ultimately contributing to more effective, community-centered management of disasters and health crises.