Sociology of Katrina

The second edition of The Sociology of Katrina brings together the nation's top sociological researchers in an effort to deepen our understanding of the modern catastrophe that is Hurricane Katrina. Five years after the storm, its profound impact continues to be felt.

This new edition explores emerging themes, as well as ongoing issues that continue to besiege survivors. The book has been updated and revised throughout—from data about recovery efforts and environmental conditions, to discussions of major social issues in education, health care, the economy, and crime. The authors thoroughly review the important topic of recovery, both in New Orleans and in the wider area of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This new edition features a new chapter focused on the Katrina experience for people in the primary impact area, or "ground zero," five years after the storm. This chapter uncovers many challenges in overcoming the critical problems caused by the storm of the century.

From this important update of the acclaimed first edition, it is apparent that "the storm is not over," as Katrina continues to generate political, economic, community, and personal controversy.

David L. Brunsma is associate professor of sociology at the University of Missouri at Columbia.
David Overfelt is a graduate of sociology at the University of Missouri at Columbia and a member of Sociologists Without Borders.
J. Steven Picou is professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work at the University of South Alabama in Mobile.