HKDSE Geography/M1/Perception of Risks

Rational Perception of Risks When a hazard appears infrequently in an area and with low intensity, people will choose to absorb losses. When a hazard exceeds the awareness threshold, people will take notice of it. However, they will still accept the losses. When the frequency and magnitude of the hazard reaches the action threshold, people will take measures to minimise the losses. When the hazard exceeds the intolerance threshold, people will move away from the area. Other Perceptions Some believe hazards cannot occur in the same location twice, i.e. 'Lightning does not strike the same place twice.' Some believe that the occurrence of hazard is controlled by a deity, and it is thus meaningless to attempt to evade it. Some may forget the possibility of a hazard after a long time, e.g. dormant volcanoes. Some may believe the government provides sufficient production, and it is thus unnecessary to move out of the area.