Pinning down vulnerability : from narratives to numbers
Date
2010-08
Journal Title
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Publisher
Wiley Online Library
Abstract
Social vulnerability analyses have typically relied upon narratives to capture the nuances of the
concept. While narratives have enhanced our understanding of the multiple drivers of vulnerability,
they have had limited influence on hazards and climate adaptation policy. This is partially
a function of the different needs and goals of the policy and research communities. The
former prioritises generalised quantitative information, while the latter is more concerned with
capturing complexity. A theoretically driven and empirically tested quantitative vulnerability
and capacities index (VCI) for use at the local scale is presented to help connect vulnerability
research and policy. There are four versions of the index for use in rural and urban contexts at the
household and community levels. There can be an infinite number of drivers of vulnerability,
but the VCI draws upon 12 indicators to represent material, institutional and attitudinal aspects
of differential vulnerability and capacities.
Description
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Journal Article (peer-reviewed)
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Text
Keywords
ADAPTATION, COASTAL GUJARAT, DISASTER RISK REDUCTION, LOCAL SCALE, QUANTITATIVE VULNERABILTIY, CAPACITIES INDEX, VULNERABILITY