Capabilities approach

Definition

The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework that emphasizes individuals' abilities to achieve well-being and the opportunities available to them to lead fulfilling lives. This approach focuses on enhancing people's capabilities, rather than just addressing material poverty, by looking at what individuals can do and be in society. It connects deeply with inclusive growth and pro-poor development strategies by advocating for policies that enable all individuals, especially marginalized groups, to improve their quality of life and participate fully in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The capabilities approach was popularized by economist Amartya Sen, who argued that freedom to achieve well-being is central to development.
2. This approach encourages assessing individuals based on their capabilities rather than merely focusing on income or resources, leading to a broader understanding of poverty.
3. It highlights the importance of social factors such as education, health care, and access to resources in determining an individual's ability to thrive.
4. Policies inspired by the capabilities approach aim to remove barriers that prevent people from accessing opportunities, thus promoting equity and inclusion.
5. The capabilities approach has influenced various international development policies and frameworks, advocating for comprehensive strategies that prioritize human welfare.

Review Questions

• How does the capabilities approach differ from traditional measures of poverty?
  • The capabilities approach shifts the focus from traditional measures like income levels to understanding what individuals are able to do with their resources. While traditional poverty assessments often concentrate on material wealth or lack thereof, the capabilities approach considers social factors such as education and health as essential components of an individual's overall well-being. This broader perspective allows for more effective policies that enhance personal freedom and opportunity.
• Discuss the implications of the capabilities approach for policy-making in promoting inclusive growth.
  • The implications of the capabilities approach for policy-making are profound as it advocates for creating conditions that enhance individuals' abilities to succeed. This involves not only providing economic opportunities but also ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and social services. Policies should focus on dismantling systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities, thereby fostering an environment where everyone can participate fully in economic and social life. Such an inclusive strategy is crucial for achieving sustainable growth that benefits all segments of society.
• Evaluate how the capabilities approach contributes to understanding global poverty beyond economic metrics.
  • The capabilities approach offers a more nuanced understanding of global poverty by emphasizing human potential rather than mere financial statistics. It encourages looking at how social inequalities affect individuals' abilities to live fulfilling lives, thus redefining poverty as a multi-dimensional issue. By integrating aspects like health, education, and empowerment into discussions about poverty reduction, this framework not only addresses immediate material needs but also fosters long-term societal change. Ultimately, it promotes a holistic view of development that prioritizes human dignity and agency.

Related terms

Human Development Index (HDI):

A composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators used to rank countries into four tiers of human development.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, including the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

Poverty Alleviation: Efforts aimed at reducing the level of poverty in a community or country, which often include economic growth initiatives, social programs, and educational opportunities.