A Paradise Built in Hell: The Extraordinary Communities That Arise in Disaster

Research and write a case study of a disaster that is not covered in this book. Analyze the responses of the authorities and the community, and discuss how these responses were similar or different.

Discuss the differences between charity and mutual aid and why they are significant.

Many of the key figures mentioned in this book are deeply religious or spiritual. Discuss the role of religiosity in this book, answering one or more of the following questions: What role do churches and other religious communities play in disaster settings? How does spirituality affect one’s sense of self, according to Solnit? What lessons can be learned from religious communities on how to respond to disaster?