Understanding Sen’s Capability Approach: A Guide for Beginners
What is the Capability Approach?
The Capability Approach is a concept developed by economist and philosopher Amartya Sen. It is an alternative to other approaches to measuring welfare, such as income and GDP, and is focused on people’s ability to function.
The Capability Approach is based on the idea that welfare is not just a matter of having goods and services, but rather on the ability to live a desirable life. The approach asserts that people’s welfare cannot be measured solely by their income or economic situation. Instead, it looks at what people are capable of doing, and how they are able to function.
According to Sen, “The capability approach looks at people’s freedom to choose the kind of lives they would like to lead.” This means that it doesn’t only focus on what people have, but also on what they can do.
Why is the Capability Approach Important?
The Capability Approach is essential in providing a more holistic approach to measuring welfare. It is a useful tool for policymakers to understand the needs of people and develop policies that address those needs.
The Capability Approach acknowledges that people have diverse aspirations and needs. It is not just about having basic needs met but also about the ability to live a desirable life, given the person’s specific location, culture, and life circumstances.
The Capability Approach is also essential in addressing inequality. By focusing on people’s ability to function, the approach recognizes that inequality is not just about an unequal distribution of resources but also about unequal capabilities. As such, it calls for policies that promote equal opportunities and development.
Examples of Capability Approach in Practice
The Capability Approach has been applied in various areas, including development, social policy, and education. Here are a few examples of how it has been put into action:
1. Development: In Kerala, India, the Capability Approach informed the state’s development strategy in the 1990s. Focusing on social development, the state made key investments in health care, education, and literacy rates, reducing poverty and increasing human development indicators.
2. Social Policy: In the UK, the Capability Approach has been used to evaluate social policies. For example, the approach has been applied to analyze the impact of austerity measures on children and families, considering their ability to function, access to services, and quality of life.
3. Education: The Capability Approach has also been used in education policy to improve access and quality of education. In South Africa, for example, a capability approach to education has informed policies that address the socio-economic factors that limit children’s ability to learn.
Conclusion
The Capability Approach offers a powerful lens through which to view people’s well-being. Its focus on what people can do, rather than what they have, provides a more comprehensive approach to welfare. Additionally, it highlights the importance of equality and the need for policies that enable all people to have the freedom to choose the life they want to live. The Capability Approach is an essential tool for policymakers and citizens alike who want to work towards a world where everyone can thrive.
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