Communication on social aspects
Understanding of the structure of vulnerability and its role in risk according to the natural science paradigm has been improved through a combination of approaches. Terms crucial to understanding vulnerability, and risk, in the natural sciences were identified and explicitly defined. Using these, a functional conceptual model of risk was developed to give appropriate context for the discussion of risk.
In creating the model, new terminology was developed - vulnerability components, vulnerability factors, and metaphysical realm - that should assist in understanding both vulnerability and risk. A conceptual model for vulnerability and coping capacity was developed using the relationship between vulnerability factors, vulnerability components, and local context.
This vulnerability model aids in understanding the structure of vulnerability and the identification and organization of factors (and indicators of these) influencing vulnerability. Given the determination of appropriate weight, the vulnerability model has the potential to facilitate semi-quantitative vulnerability analysis.
Figure 1 The proposed model for vulnerability conceptualization within risk assessment context