Dichotomies of disaster management: a reflection on the politics of efficient decision making

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.