Hurricane Katrina Essay

A large portion of this cost ultimately is borne by the state (Handmer, 2006). Therefore, through rational choice theory, policy was enacted to provide benefit at the lowest cost. For instance, sales taxes were raised, drainage systems were implemented to prevent flooding, building codes were upgraded to prevent excessive property damage, and job training programs were implemented to help spur growth. All of this legislation was enacted through the use of cost benefit analysis to determine, over the long-term, how much money the state can save (Hartman, 2006).

In conclusion, both elitism and ration choice theory can have a dramatic impact on society, policy making, and emergency response. As mentioned above, elitism, when used in an extreme many, can have severely adverse consequences on society. Aspects such as rapid inequality, lack of opportunity, economic inefficiencies, and a stagnating middle class wages, all harm society. In regards to policy making, only those with the resources, which are often elite, will be able to enact policy. This policy will inevitably benefit the elite at the expense of the already burdened middle class.Tax policy for instance, provides preferential treatment predominately to the elite. If left unabated, policy such as emergency response metrics could also be impacted. Rational choice theory however, attempts to make more rational decisions that are in the best interest of all stakeholders. Although this process can be daunting as diverse population can often be difficult to please, the theory does help provide sound judgment. In addition, ration choice, when used properly can create emergency response and overall policy that can facilitate growth, rather than concentrating it between a select few individuals.

References:

1) Domhoff, G. William (1990). The power elite and the state: how policy is made in America. Transaction Publishers. ISBN 978-0-202-30373-4

2) Hartmann, Michael (2007). The sociology of elites. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-0-415-41197-4

3) Hartman, C. And Squires, G. (ed.) (2006) There is No Such Thing as a Natural Disaster: Race, Class, and Hurricane Katrina. Routledge.

4) Hindmoor, a. (2006)….....