Explanation
The susceptibility of persons or groups to harm through linguistic exposure, devaluation, dependence, or unequal agency. It directs attention to the conditions under which speaking becomes risky and treats the need for protection as relational rather than mere weakness.
Example
A publicly identified witness may be placed at greater risk by the same statement than an anonymous institution.
Counterexample
Merely mentioning “Vulnerability” without the described function is not a sufficient example.
Distinction
Pathos denotes affective force; vulnerability names the real or situational possibility of being harmed.
Effect on thought and perception
It directs attention to the conditions under which speaking becomes risky and treats the need for protection as relational rather than mere weakness.
Resonance
In the atlas, Vulnerability closes 1 previously unresolved reference line(s) and opens controlled paths of thought.
Etymology
Technical core term; individual etymological review pending
Provenance
ATLAS 241 residual-case triage → profile candidate 241-C → source and neighbourhood cross-check → ATLAS 244
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Vulnerability“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-CORE-244-027. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-CORE-244-027The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.