Capabilities Approach

Definition

The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework for evaluating individual well-being and social justice, focusing on what people are able to do and be in their lives. This approach emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to achieve their potential through access to essential resources and opportunities, rather than merely measuring economic wealth or material possessions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The capabilities approach was developed by economist Amartya Sen and philosopher Martha Nussbaum as a response to traditional welfare economics, which often focuses solely on income and resources.
2. This approach posits that true development should enhance people's capabilities to lead lives they value, emphasizing freedom and choice as essential components of human flourishing.
3. One key aspect of the capabilities approach is its focus on individual agency, recognizing that people have different needs and aspirations based on their personal circumstances.
4. The capabilities approach has influenced international development policies and practices, leading to a shift towards more holistic assessments of well-being beyond economic growth.
5. Critics of the capabilities approach argue that it can be difficult to measure capabilities effectively and that the emphasis on individual agency might overlook structural inequalities.

Review Questions

• How does the capabilities approach differ from traditional economic development models in assessing well-being?
  • The capabilities approach diverges from traditional economic models by prioritizing individual agency and the actual opportunities available to people rather than just measuring economic output or income levels. While traditional models often focus on material wealth as a sign of development, the capabilities approach emphasizes enhancing individuals' abilities to pursue lives they value. This means considering factors such as health, education, and social inclusion as crucial components of well-being.
• Discuss the implications of the capabilities approach for policy-making in the context of economic development.
  • The capabilities approach has significant implications for policy-making by urging governments and organizations to focus on empowering individuals through access to resources and opportunities rather than merely promoting economic growth. Policies informed by this framework may prioritize investments in health care, education, and social services to enhance people's functionings. This shift can lead to more inclusive growth strategies that aim to reduce inequality and improve quality of life for marginalized populations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the capabilities approach in addressing global inequalities compared to other frameworks.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the capabilities approach in addressing global inequalities reveals its strengths in highlighting individual empowerment and well-being over mere economic metrics. Unlike frameworks focused solely on GDP or income levels, this approach recognizes diverse human experiences and aspirations, allowing for targeted interventions. However, challenges remain in measuring capabilities consistently across different contexts. The capabilities approach encourages a more nuanced understanding of inequality, but its implementation can struggle against entrenched systemic issues that require broader structural changes.

Related terms

Human Development Index: A composite index measuring average achievement in key dimensions of human development, including health, education, and standard of living.

Social Justice: The concept of creating a fair and just society by addressing inequalities in wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

Functionings: The various things a person may value doing or being, which reflects the different states of being or activities that contribute to an individual's well-being.