Assumptions of Vulnerability (AoVs) identify what we see as most at risk and worth protecting, shaping our moral judgments and responses. They explain why people react so strongly to different issues, as each person’s AoVs guide their perception of harm and what they feel compelled to defend.
Impact of AoVs on Moral Outrage and Behavior
- Perception of Harm: Our AoVs determine what triggers our sense of moral outrage. For example, if someone prioritizes “The Environment,” they are likely to be more distressed by ecological harm.
- Moral Judgments: AoVs shape what we consider right or wrong. For instance, someone with “The Divine” as an AoV may see societal shifts as morally threatening.
- Protective Instincts: People act defensively based on their AoVs, believing they are safeguarding something important, which fuels passionate responses.
Why This Matters
- Self-Awareness: Understanding our AoVs helps explain why certain issues trigger strong emotional responses.
- Empathy: Recognizing others’ AoVs can reduce conflict by highlighting that everyone is motivated by protecting what they value.
- Better Communication: Acknowledging different AoVs can lead to more constructive conversations and conflict resolution by finding common ground.