The Capability Approach: a theoretical survey

Ingrid Robeyns

Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, 2005, vol. 6, issue 1, 93-117

Abstract: This paper aims to present a theoretical survey of the capability approach in an interdisciplinary and accessible way. It focuses on the main conceptual and theoretical aspects of the capability approach, as developed by Amartya Sen, Martha Nussbaum, and others. The capability approach is a broad normative framework for the evaluation and assessment of individual well-being and social arrangements, the design of policies, and proposals about social change in society. Its main characteristics are its highly interdisciplinary character, and the focus on the plural or multidimensional aspects of well-being. The approach highlights the difference between means and ends, and between substantive freedoms (capabilities) and outcomes (achieved functionings).

Keywords: Amartya Sen; Capabilities; Capability approach; Development; Functionings; Justice; Martha Nussbaum; Poverty; Well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2005
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (350)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:taf:jhudca:v:6:y:2005:i:1:p:93-117

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DOI: 10.1080/146498805200034266

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