This chapter introduces two different approaches to understanding disasters. The 'hazard' paradigm, identified in chapter one as influencing the 'dominant view' regarding the application of the refugee definition in the context of disasters and climate change, is described as being characterised by a focus on hazards such as cyclones and earthquakes, with limited attention paid to the role of social factors in the unfolding of a disaster. The 'social' paradigm is then presented as providing a richer theoretical lens owing to its recognition of social factors as key elements in any disaster. The role played by discrimination in contributing to differential exposure and vulnerability to disaster-related harm is highlighted, and the relevance of this paradigm for guiding refugee status determination in the context of disasters and climate change is underscored.