Crisis Perception and Policy Outcomes: Comparison between Environmental and Infrastructure Crises
Publication: Journal of Infrastructure Systems
Volume 1, Issue 4
Abstract
The publication of Silent Spring in 1962 heralded the beginning of the modern environmental movement. America in Ruins, published in 1981, attempted to draw attention to the “infrastructure crisis” but did not generate the same level of public support. This paper compares and contrasts the issues presented in these two books and reviews their respective roles in publicizing issues related to the natural and built environments. The public perception of crisis and the related public policies are also explored in the context of publications and legislation related to Silent Spring and America in Ruins . A discussion of the differences and similarities focuses on the importance of future directions rather than addressing the question, “Was there an infrastructure crisis?” Issues posed for future investigation include establishing priorities between increased financing and improving the use of existing resources and examining the link between the natural and built environments as it relates to sustainability. Lessons that may be derived from an analysis of the environmental and infrastructure crises include recognizing the importance of broad-based support and relating the issues to the public's fear for personal health and safety.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Infrastructure Systems
Volume 1 • Issue 4 • December 1995
Pages: 195 - 203
Copyright
Copyright © 1995 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published online: Dec 1, 1995
Published in print: Dec 1995
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