Definitions of Vulnerability

Comparing definitions of vulnerability and their implications for applications

• Differential exposure: Relative exposure of different groups to different stresses
• Relative index: Aggregate score on selected indicators
• Multi-attribute profile: Profile of multiple dimensions
• Scenario outcome: Measure of the outcome of a scenario
• Damage function: Equation linking hazard and outcome
• Collapse: Inverse of resilience, collapse of a system
• Dynamic choice: Pathway of choices lead to positive or adverse outcome
• Narrative: Storylines that depict the structure and nature of vulnerability

Paper [download in pdf] Downing et al 2005 Water vulnerability