Valuing Vulnerability: New Definitions of Courage

by Judith V. Jordan

In a dominant, Western culture that celebrates strength in separation and holds unrealistic expectations for independent, autonomous functioning, vulnerability is seen as a handicap. This system creates the illusion of an invulnerable and separate self, using autonomous, individualistic standards to measure a person's worth. Since these unrealistic expectations cannot be humanly attained, these controlling images become the source of shame and disconnection. Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) suggests that there is value in embracing vulnerability and in providing support, both at an individual and a societal level, for the inevitable vulnerability of all people. Rather than espousing the individual, mostly mythical, traits of a “lone hero,” RCT moves us toward new and important pathways to resilience and courage through connection. A version of this paper was originally presented at the 2002 Learning from Women Conference cosponsored by Harvard Medical School and the Jean Baker Miller Training Institute.

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Published January 1, 2003