The value and political significance of vulnerable groups

Authors

  • Fabio Macioce Università LUMSA di Roma

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18042/cepc/rep.195.09

Abstract

The notion of vulnerable groups is as much used in normative texts as it is criticised in philosophical and political scholarship. This article analyses the criticisms that have been levelled at this notion, and proposes, as an alternative, two possible ways of interpreting it. The two possible meanings of group vulnerability are able to respond to the criticisms — in particular, concerning an essentialist approach and risks of stereotyping — and allow to show the positive value that group vulnerability can have, especially on a political level. The article tends to show that the collective dimension of vulnerability can play an enabling and positive role, and is fundamental in unmasking systems of power and oppression that tend to marginalise people in vulnerable conditions.

Published

2022-03-29

Issue

Section

RESEARCH NOTES