As with most college courses, the first day of class is usually a briefing on exactly what to expect for the rest of the semester. My culture, religion and the environment class was no different... well, I suppose that's not entirely correct, I cannot say that i have ever been blindfolded on the first class! It being a longer class than most, we also had time for some basic class discussions. I think what caught my attention most was a comment made by another student. Although I can not remember what exactly it was pertaining to, he asked why people build their houses on fault lines or on other places that could be seen as precarious. The comment reminded me of a book i read a few years ago, The Control of Nature by John McPhee. The book has various short stories discussing particular instances in which mankind has tried to take control of nature, from stopping Icelandic volcanoes to diverting rivers in Louisiana and much more. I think the question itself could have been discussed for an entire class, however I feel there are varying degrees of risk associated with living in naturally volatile areas. I find it hard to muster sympathy for people who would build their home atop a cliff face for the view and then lose their home in a landslide, however many people including myself would argue that the cost benefit of being "home" can outweigh potential risk. Having lived in a place that faced the risk of lost homes and even towns due to avalanches, I can say that for me, the family and community that i experienced there would have me move back in a heartbeat. Even families that have tragically lost children due to nature's harsh hand still choose to live there, because there truly is no place like home.
Perhaps where I stand is more about respect for nature than actual logical thinking. It would be stupid to assume one's safety when there are clear risks, but it would also be stupid to leave a place you call home because there's a risk of loss. If one can understand and respect the natural risks surrounding their home, whether it be volcanoes, avalanches, tsunamis or anything else, they could have the best of both worlds and live happily and safely.
