Capabilities approach

Definition

The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework that focuses on what individuals are able to do and be, emphasizing the importance of individual freedoms and opportunities in assessing well-being and social justice. This approach shifts the focus from merely economic resources to the actual capabilities that people possess, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of global justice and inequality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The capabilities approach was popularized by economist Amartya Sen, who argued that measuring well-being should focus on people's actual capabilities rather than just their material wealth.
2. This approach highlights the importance of individual agency, stressing that enhancing capabilities enables people to pursue their own conception of a good life.
3. In global justice discussions, the capabilities approach calls for policies that expand individuals' capabilities across various dimensions such as health, education, and participation in political life.
4. Critics of the capabilities approach argue that it may overlook structural inequalities and focus too much on individual responsibility rather than systemic issues.
5. The capabilities approach has influenced various fields, including development studies, human rights advocacy, and welfare economics, leading to a more holistic understanding of well-being.

Review Questions

• How does the capabilities approach differ from traditional measures of economic development when assessing global justice?
  • The capabilities approach differs from traditional economic measures by emphasizing what individuals can actually do with their resources rather than just their material wealth. While traditional measures might focus solely on GDP or income levels, the capabilities approach considers factors like health, education, and freedom of choice as essential components of well-being. This perspective allows for a more nuanced understanding of global justice because it accounts for diverse individual needs and circumstances.
• Discuss the implications of the capabilities approach for policy-making in relation to social justice.
  • The capabilities approach has significant implications for policy-making related to social justice as it calls for strategies that enhance individuals' abilities to achieve valued life outcomes. Policymakers are encouraged to focus on expanding access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for political participation. By prioritizing capability enhancement, policies can address systemic barriers faced by marginalized groups and foster a more equitable society where everyone has the means to pursue their aspirations.
• Evaluate how the capabilities approach contributes to our understanding of inequality in a global context.
  • The capabilities approach contributes to our understanding of global inequality by framing it not just in terms of resource distribution but also in terms of individuals' potential to achieve well-being. It highlights how structural factors can limit people's capabilities across different societies, leading to disparities in health, education, and empowerment. By shifting the focus to enhancing capabilities, we can better analyze and address the root causes of inequality, leading to more effective strategies for promoting global justice and improving lives.

Related terms

Human Development Index: A composite index measuring a country's average achievements in health, education, and income, reflecting the broader concept of human development beyond just economic growth.

Social Justice: The fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often discussed in relation to rights and welfare.

Rawlsian Justice: A theory of justice proposed by John Rawls that emphasizes fairness and the idea of the 'original position' to determine principles of justice that ensure equality and opportunity for all.