Thoughts on Resilient Society(<Special Issue>Safe and Resilient Society against Natural Disaster)

Abstract

This article provides some thoughts on "resilient society" based on author's comments about three presentations at the workshop in EDRA 44. In regard to the characteristic tendencies of recent disasters, particularly, the reasons why resilience is focused and what it is are examined. Then, each of three presentations is respectively identified in terms of the main phases after disaster, and is related to theoretical themes of EBS. On the possibility of achieving "resilient society," the article discusses that any recovery planning, under the social structure of economical stagnation in rapid aging with a low birthrate, should include a "new quality" of society that realizes a sustainable provision with the reduction and socially equitable redistribution of "unhappiness." Additionally, a few dilemmas in further disaster studies are pointed out.