Natural Disasters and Risk Reduction

As I continue my research, I have discovered a website that will be of great benefit to me for this independent study. The site is part of the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada webpage, entitled “Natural Disasters and Risk Reduction.” For my thesis to be successful, I will have to cite indisputable facts regarding Canada’s response to natural disasters abroad. This site contains comprehensive information regarding the issue including what means the government uses, how long it takes them to respond, the role of specific departments, objectives and many more. Interestingly enough, there is an entire section devoted to the documentation Canada’s assistance in the aftermath of key natural disasters that must be updated frequently, as it now has a page regarding the recent Central Italy earthquake.

The validity of this source is extremely strong. An official government website must include accurate information, and though I would not be surprised to find bias, I feel that I can professionally asses the information and draw rational conclusions. From what I have read so far, I am pleased to see that the Canadian government has been spreading our socialistic viewpoint in its foreign aid.

Ultimately, I feel as though this source will be essential in proving my thesis. Balancing this practical assessment of natural disasters with the emotional side I learned about in Cooper’s novel, I believe that I should be able to create a successful argumentative essay.

Website can be found by clicking here.

Dispatches From The Edge

          When I decided to write my independent study on natural disaster relief, the first source that came to mind was a book a read a few years ago by CNN news anchor Anderson Cooper. Dispatches from the Edge is a memoir by Cooper, in which he recounts his coverage of four of the worlds biggest disasters - the tsunami, Katrina, the war in Iraq and the Niger famine. I remembered the narrative as extremely moving, but on top of that, informative. I recently dug up my copy of the book, and begun to re-read the biography. Not only has it given me a strong background knowledge on various disasters, but it has also taught me about the importance of providing disaster relief. It is not just an emotional recollection, but a rational one as well. Cooper manages to blend facts with personal opinion to create a compelling and informative read.

          Cooper’s memoir is a great platform to begin my research on. It has provided a solid foundation, and will allow me to look at further information in a more objective light. The subject is extremely moving one, and I feel that if I am to analyze the matter effectively, I have to approach it in a detached manner. The facts must speak for themselves, and I can’t let personal bias cloud my vision. By starting with this piece, I have prepared myself for the wave of emotions that come along with such a thesis.