Martha Nussbaum

Definition

Martha Nussbaum is a prominent American philosopher known for her work in ethics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of law. She has extensively explored themes of justice, capabilities, and human rights, contributing significantly to discussions on poverty and disability rights. Nussbaum's capability approach emphasizes the importance of individual capabilities and the role of social structures in enabling or hindering access to basic rights and resources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nussbaum argues that focusing on capabilities rather than resources provides a more holistic understanding of well-being and social justice.
2. Her work on poverty law emphasizes the need for welfare rights that enable individuals to achieve essential capabilities necessary for a dignified life.
3. Nussbaum's views on disability rights advocate for policies that accommodate diverse needs, promoting inclusivity within societal structures.
4. She critiques traditional approaches to justice that overlook the complexities of individual circumstances and the role of emotions in ethical considerations.
5. Nussbaum's philosophy has influenced various fields, including law, development studies, and feminist theory, highlighting the interconnectedness of rights and capabilities.

Review Questions

• How does Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach reshape our understanding of poverty law?
  • Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach shifts the focus from mere economic resources to what individuals can actually achieve with those resources. This perspective argues that poverty law should not only provide financial assistance but also ensure that individuals have the necessary capabilities to lead fulfilling lives. By prioritizing human development over material wealth, her framework emphasizes empowering individuals to overcome barriers imposed by social structures.
• Discuss how Nussbaum's views on disability rights align with her broader philosophical principles regarding human dignity.
  • Nussbaum's views on disability rights are deeply rooted in her commitment to human dignity and equality. She argues that society must adapt its structures to accommodate individuals with disabilities, enabling them to exercise their capabilities fully. This aligns with her broader philosophical principles, which emphasize that all individuals deserve equal opportunities to pursue their goals and live meaningful lives, regardless of their physical or mental abilities.
• Evaluate how Nussbaum's contributions to welfare rights impact current discussions on social justice and human rights.
  • Martha Nussbaum's contributions to welfare rights significantly impact contemporary discussions on social justice by framing access to basic needs as a fundamental human right. Her emphasis on capabilities encourages policymakers to consider how social systems can facilitate or obstruct individuals' abilities to thrive. This perspective is crucial in advocating for inclusive policies that address inequalities and ensure all individuals can realize their potential within society, fostering a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.

Related terms

Capabilities Approach: A theoretical framework that focuses on what individuals are able to do and to be, emphasizing the importance of personal capabilities in assessing well-being and social justice.

Social Justice:

The view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities, which involves addressing issues of inequality and discrimination.

Human Rights: Fundamental rights that belong to every person simply because they are human, often framed within legal and moral contexts aimed at protecting individual dignity.