Adversity Quote by Jonathan M. Katz
![“[For] decades, researchers have told us that the link between cataclysm and social disintegration is a myth perpetuated by movies, fiction, and misguided journalism. In fact, in case after case, the opposite occurs: In the earthquake and fire of 1906, Jack London observed: "never, in all San…” quote by Jonathan M. Katz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/500/jonathan-m-katz-110193_adversity_for-decades-researchers-have-told-us-tha_2728169.jpg)
““[For] decades, researchers have told us that the link between cataclysm and social disintegration is a myth perpetuated by movies, fiction, and misguided journalism. In fact, in case after case, the opposite occurs: In the earthquake and fire of 1906, Jack London observed: "never, in all San Francisco's history, were her people so kind and courteous as on this night of terror." "We did not panic. We coped," a British psychiatrist recalled after the July 7, 2005, London subway bombings. We often assume that such humanity among survivors, what author Rebecca Solnit has called "a paradise built in hell," is an exception after catastrophes, specific to a particular culture or place. In fact, it is the rule.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Upside of Downside by Jonathan M. Katz, 2015
Catastrophes often reveal unexpected kindness and solidarity, contrary to popular belief
In simple terms: Disasters can bring out the best in people
Key Takeaway
Look for compassion in crises
Themes
humanity
resilience
community
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- disaster response
- community building
- emergency relief
- media analysis
Key Concepts
social psychology
collective behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- What examples of kindness have you witnessed in crises?
- How can we encourage solidarity after disasters?
A Different Perspective
Not all societies respond positively; cultural factors influence reactions
