Systems fragility: The sociology of chaos

Lori R. Hodges, MA

doi:10.5055/jem.2016.0284

Authors

Lori R. Hodges, MA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2016.0284

Keywords:

complexity, fragility, systems theory, emergency management, social capital, resilience, vulnerability

Abstract

This article examines the concept of community fragility in emergency management from a systems perspective. Using literature that addresses fragility in four areas of complex systems, including ecosystems, social systems, sociotechnical systems, and complex adaptive systems, a theoretical framework focused on the emergency management field is created. These findings illustrate how community fragility factors can be used in the emergency management field to not only improve overall outcomes after disaster but also build less fragile systems and communities in preparation for future disasters.

Author Biography

Lori R. Hodges, MA

Fort Collins, Colorado

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