National Survey Evidence on Disasters and Relief: Risk Beliefs, Self-Interest, and Compassion

W Viscusi and Richard Zeckhauser

No 12582, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: A nationally representative sample of respondents estimated their fatality risks from four types of natural disasters, and indicated whether they favored governmental disaster relief. For all hazards, including auto accident risks, most respondents assessed their risks as being below average, with one-third assessing them as average. Individuals from high-risk states, or with experience with disasters, estimate risks higher, though by less than reasonable calculations require. Four-fifths of our respondents favor government relief for disaster victims, but only one-third do for victims in high-risk areas. Individuals who perceive themselves at higher risk are more supportive of government assistance.

JEL-codes: D80 D81 H53 Q54 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2006-10
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-fmk
Note: LE EEE
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Published as W. Viscusi & Richard Zeckhauser, 2006. "National survey evidence on disasters and relief: Risk beliefs, self-interest, and compassion," Journal of Risk and Uncertainty, Springer, vol. 33(1), pages 13-36, September.

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Journal Article: National survey evidence on disasters and relief: Risk beliefs, self-interest, and compassion (2006)
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