220308 Uncertainty, Risk and Disaster in History (S) (SoSe 2025)

The graduate-level course, "Uncertainty, Risk, and Disaster in History," is designed to equip you with a robust understanding of the theoretical frameworks and conceptual approaches associated with uncertainty, risk, and disaster. Drawing from the rich fields of Risk Sociology, uncertainty studies, and historical disaster studies, the course provides a comprehensive exploration of how these elements have shaped human experience and societal development across different historical epochs.

We begin by getting familiar with foundational theories and concepts that underpin the study of uncertainty, risk, and disaster, such as Niklas Luhmann’s Sociology of Risk (Soziologie des Risikos), Mary Douglas’ Risk and Culture as well as Ulrich Beck’s Risk Society (Risikogesellschaft). We will explore Risk Sociology to understand how societies perceived, managed, and communicated risk, while uncertainty studies will offer insights into how historical actors have navigated unknowns and unpredictabilities. Historical disaster studies will provide a lens through which to examine the impact of catastrophic events on societies and their responses to such crises. While we will first consider these concepts separately, we will also see how they interact and are entangled with each other.

While the course is anchored in theoretical discourse, it also emphasizes the application of these theories through historical case studies. These case studies allow us to observe how societies have historically grappled with uncertainty, assessed risks, and responded to disasters and how cultural factors have influenced the perception of risk, uncertainty and disaster across time. Case studies will focus geographically on Europe and the Americas, ranging from the colonial/ early American/ Early Modern period to the very recent past of the 21st century.

A key objective of our course is therefore to highlight the relevance of historical perspectives on uncertainty, risk, and disaster for understanding contemporary challenges. In today's world, characterized by rapid technological advancements and global interconnectedness, the ability to comprehend and manage uncertainty and risk is more critical than ever. We will therefore also ask, how far lessons from the past may inform present-day strategies for disaster preparedness, risk management, and – possibly – policy-making. By drawing parallels between historical and current events, you will be encouraged to critically assess how historical insights can be applied to modern contexts.

By the end of the course, you will hopefully have acquired a robust theoretical foundation and the ability to apply these concepts to historical scenarios. This course aims to foster a deep appreciation of the historical dimensions of uncertainty, risk, and disaster, empowering you to navigate and address these enduring challenges with insight and good judgement.

Requirements for participation, required level

A sound level of spoken and written English in order to be able to follow and participate in the theoretical texts and discussion during class.

Bibliography

Bavel, B. J. P. v., Curtis, D. R., Dijkman, J., Hannaford, M., De Keyzer, M. k., Van Onacker, E., & Soens, T. (2020). Disasters and History : The Vulnerability and Resilience of Past Societies. Cambridge University Press,.
Beck, U. (2007). Weltrisikogesellschaft. Suhrkamp.
Douglas, M., & Wildavsky, A. (1983). Risk and culture. An essay on the selection of technological and environmental dangers. University of California Press.
Luhmann, N. (2003). Soziologie des Risikos. de Gruyter.
Mauelshagen, F. (2018). The Age of Uncertainty: The Challenges of Climate Change for the Insurance Business. In C. Leggewie & F. Mauelshagen (Eds.), Climate Change and Cultural Transition in Europe (pp. 301-319). Brill.