In Ecology of Fear, Davis discusses how the border between natural and social worlds in Southern California is misconstrued. He also argues that natural disasters in 20th century Southern California have been far below, rather than dramatically above, the historical norm. How will this “disaster deficit” affect the foundations of our impermanent civilization?
The Los Angeles Times wrote that the “Ecology of Fear will not likely appear on tourist bureau or Chamber of Commerce reading lists, but it must be read by anyone who cares about Los Angeles.” Readers have said that this book is “horrifyingly captivating,” and that Davis tells a “unique story.”
Davis, is the author of a quartet of controversial books—City of Quartz, Magical Urbanism, Ecology of Fear, and Dead Cities—about Los Angeles in the disaster-wrecked 1990s. In his varied career, Davis has been an anti-war activist, meat cutter, truck driver, environmental historian, and now, a professor of creative writing at the University of California, Riverside.
The San Bernardino County Museum is at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and holiday Mondays from 9am to 5pm. Admission is $8 (adult), $6 (military or senior), $5 (student) and $4 (child aged 5 to 12). Children under five and Museum Association members are admitted free. For more information, visit www.sbcountymuseum.org.
The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is 909-307-2669 ext. 229 or (TDD) 909-792-1462.