Question #1
It is characteristic in all major disasters that many regard their role to assess survivors’ needs. There may be confusion within government departments about where this responsibility lies.
Health, housing and emergency planning officials have often regarded it as their particular task. In addition, groups such as the military frequently make their own assessments—as do voluntary organizations, and representatives of international agencies. They often do so either to suit their own views and operational policies, or as verification of official assessments which they may be inclined to distrust, or which may not be sufficiently detailed for their purposes.
- Given this situation, if the government is to maintain full control during disasters can it enter into a close working relationship with all assisting agencies and groups, and still maintain full control?
- Is it necessary for government to maintain full control during disasters?
Please respond to this topic and critique that of at least one student by the end of this module.
Question # 2
In developing your paper and PPT, it is important to understand denotative vs. connotative language; the former is factual while the latter is expressive. Connotative usage can be emotion-laden. For example, HOME is a structure used for dwelling; HOME is also a warm place filled with love and family. Renaming persons, places, and concepts is done for effect or to incite action. An “illegal alien” becomes an “undocumented citizen,” reframed for acceptance “into the fold.”
For this exercise:
- Look up definition of denotative and connotative (e.g., in Google).
- Provide two examples of denotative/connotative expressions or words.
- Note which expressions/words are effective for a homeland security paper.
- Comment on those provided by your cohorts.