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Government's response to Hurricane Katrina: A public choice analysis

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  • Russell Sobel
  • Peter Leeson

Abstract

We use public choice theory to explain the failure of FEMA and other governmental agencies to carry out effective disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The areas in which we focus are: (1) the tragedy of the anti-commons resulting from layered bureaucracy, (2) a type-two error policy bias causing over cautiousness in decision making, (3) the political manipulation of disaster declarations and relief aid to win votes, (4) the problem of acquiring timely and accurate preference revelations, (5) glory seeking by government officials, and (6) the shortsightedness effect causing a bias in governmental decision making. Copyright Springer Science + Business Media, Inc. 2006

Suggested Citation

  • Russell Sobel & Peter Leeson, 2006. "Government's response to Hurricane Katrina: A public choice analysis," Public Choice, Springer, vol. 127(1), pages 55-73, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:pubcho:v:127:y:2006:i:1:p:55-73
    DOI: 10.1007/s11127-006-7730-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Thomas A. Garrett & Russell S. Sobel, 2003. "The Political Economy of FEMA Disaster Payments," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 41(3), pages 496-509, July.
    2. Dale H. Gieringer, 1985. "The Safety and Efficacy of New Drug Approval," Cato Journal, Cato Journal, Cato Institute, vol. 5(1), pages 177-201, Spring/Su.
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