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Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the variety of dichotomies related to disaster management with an objective to gain a better understanding of how and when dichotomous thinking can improve disaster management, especially in the discourse of disaster management politics.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a reflective essay that surveys dichotomies from multiple disciplines in respect to their potential contributions to disaster management.

Findings

Thinking about disaster management as a collection or series of dichotomies may help to better understand the sources, vulnerabilities, approaches, modes, methods and modes for related decision-making scenarios, particularly in the political realm.

Research limitations/implications

The world is not so simply divided at every turn and dichotomous thinking may harbor biases, mask ignorance and/or offend postmodern notions of alterity.

Practical implications

Portraying disaster management through dichotomies is an efficient way for experts to convey information and structure decisions for political agendas.

Originality/value

This study presents a unique perspective of disaster management and how it may shape the thinking and decision making of disaster management politics.

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