Path Dependence, Abnormal Times Missed Opportunities: Exploring factors that facilitate or constrain implementation of institutional reforms post catastrophic natural disasters
Year: 2017
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Path dependence literature largely accepts that large-scale disasters trigger abnormal times that weaken path dependence and create windows of opportunity to bring about institutional reforms. Yet experience suggests that institutional reforms are rarely implemented post catastrophic disasters. This thesis examines factors that might explain why the windows of opportunity triggered by disasters are missed in some cases, while seized in others. This question is explored by juxtaposing two case studies: the Gorkha 2015 earthquakes (Nepal) and the Uttarakhand 2013 flood (India). My analysis reveals the critical role of (a) gradual reforms taken during normal times and its influence on actions taken during abnormal times, (b) negative feedback by external and internal actors, and (c) denial or acknowledgement of negative feedback by internal actors. Based on the findings, I elaborate policy suggestions that may aid in mitigating the possibility of abnormal times repeatedly becoming missed opportunities.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Kanksha Mahadevia Ghimire
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3010498356