In "The Fifth Risk," Michael Lewis explores the American response to disasters, highlighting a recurring theme: the country excels at reacting to crises rather than proactively preventing them. As the protagonist walks through desolate ruins, she reflects on the stark reality of this tendency, revealing a pattern where resources and efforts are mobilized only after disaster strikes.
This observation serves as a critique of the systemic failures in disaster preparedness. It emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective, suggesting that a focus on prevention could ultimately save lives and resources, rather than relying on a reactive approach that often comes too late.