Planetary Defense is More Than Science and Technology: Policy, People, and Disaster Management

Details Planetary Defense is More Than Science and Technology: Policy, People, and Disaster Management Planetary Defense is More Than Science and Technology: Policy, People, and Disaster Management

Dec 2009

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009agufmnh32a..08h&link_type=abstract

American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2009, abstract #NH32A-08

Biology

[5200] Planetary Sciences: Astrobiology, [6205] Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects / Asteroids, [6300] Policy Sciences

Scientific paper

Physical scientists and engineers who work to identify and then deflect or destroy threatening Near Earth Objects deserve the support of colleagues who have a thorough understanding of human psychology, society and culture. Behavioral and social scientists can help build governmental and public support for vigorous and comprehensive programs of planetary defense as well as apply their work to minimize the human cost of NEO threats and impacts. Tasks include preparing the public for a succession of possible threats of differing levels; developing effective warning and evacuation strategies; and supporting residents of affected areas during the impact and recovery phases. Although much can be learned from the pre-existing disaster literature, it is important to remain mindful of differences between asteroid or comet impacts and other natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes. After identifying widespread but erroneous stereotypes that exaggerate human weakness and interfere with effective disaster planning, we turn to models whereby international, national, and regional organizations help local communities and citizens develop the skills, attitudes and resources that they need to help protect their own welfare. These models view residents of disaster areas as part of the solution as well as part of the problem, acknowledge dangers and disruptions outside of the immediate impact area, and demand high sensitivity to political and cultural issues. We conclude with a brief discussion of strategies for preserving the human legacy under worst-case scenarios including the construction and administration of survival communities and sending time capsules into space. Anthropology, political science, psychology and sociology are already contributing to astrobiology and SETI, and it is time for researchers and practitioners in these areas to become conspicuous partners in the pursuit of planetary defense.

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