Introduction: Vulnerability refigured

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

Abstract

Vulnerability has been positioned as the opposite, or ‘other’, of the ideal of individual autonomy. Hence, the autonomous agent is often characterised as someone who can sustain themselves and pursue their interests without having to depend on other people, unless via contractual relations based on mutual advantage. Closely related to autonomy in the liberal pantheon is respect for human dignity. As with autonomy, this concept has been defined in opposition to vulnerability. On the margins of the law are those whose vulnerability is overemphasised as a mark of difference. Due to this vulnerability, these subjects are typically exposed to a special protective regime that is designed to remedy an undesirable affliction and establish the security that they are denied so long as their vulnerability remains. One of the ways in which law has been developed in response to the stigma associated with vulnerability has been to redraw the boundaries between the mainstream and margins.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEmbracing Vulnerability
Subtitle of host publicationThe Challenges and Implications for Law
EditorsDaniel Bedford, Jonathan Herring
PublisherRoutledge
Number of pages27
Edition1st
ISBN (Electronic)9781351105705
ISBN (Print)9781138476929
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 13 Feb 2020

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