ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the kind of ignorance, that of a particular pattern of susceptibility, in terms of a deeper ignorance, that which concerns the phenomenon of vulnerability in general. To facilitate an inquiry into the relationship between ignorance and intersubjective vulnerability, the chapter briefly outlines a few different types of ignorance, and sketches a picture of some ways in which ignorance is produced and maintained. Since forms of ignorance manifest as complex phenomena, different types serve different interests, have different purposes and roles, and vary in both significance and value. The chapter elaborates some different ways one can be ignorant of vulnerability, especially as it pertains to sexual violence. In relation to sexual violence, a specifically feminine and/or female form of vulnerability is assumed. A core problem for social justice is the failure of many to understand fully and accurately the particular patterns of vulnerability to sexual violence experienced by those situated in diverse ways.
