# Extreme Events

**Published:** 2011-04-20  
**Categories:** Other publications, Publications  
**Tags:** ETLA  
**URL:** https://www.etla.fi/en/publications/other-articles-561-en/

#### Due to the exceptional economic situation caused by the coronavirus epidemic, we have opened a free publication: Extreme Events.

#### Abstract

This book serves as the final report of the *Game Changers* project, which was established towards the end of 2009 as a part of the *Extreme Events in Human Society initiative* at IIASA, *International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis* (Laxenburg, Austria).

A *specific* **extreme event** (Xevent) is unlikely but it potentially has significant societal impacts. However, due to the range of possible Xevents and their transmission via global links, the effects of *some* Xevent touch upon Finland quite frequently. We argue that Xevents should be on of the central concerns of decision makers in all sectors.

A completely Xevent-free society is infeasible, but some protection is nearly cost free and comes as a by-product. Contingency planning should be considered as a part of good governance. We propose that Finland be turned to a model for an *anticipatory* society, which constantly prepares for contingencies of various kinds.

Louis Pasteur said that *Chance favors only the prepared mind*. We whole-heartedly agree. And we encourage preparing sooner rather than later.

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## Additional Information

**Kirjoittajat:** Casti, John - Ilmola, Leena - Rouvinen, Petri - Wilenius, Markku

**Lataa Pdf:** https://www.etla.fi/wp-content/uploads/extreme_events.pdf

**Kansikuva:** https://www.etla.fi/wp-content/uploads/extreme_events_etukansi_high_res.jpg

40

**Sivuja:** 131

**Kieli:** en

**Sarja:** Other articles

**Publication Research:** No

**Issn:** 0356-7443

**Isbn:** 978-951-628-718-1 (print) 978-951-628-719-8 (pdf)