Capabilities approach

Definition

The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the importance of individual capabilities and opportunities in assessing well-being and social justice. It shifts the focus from traditional measures of resources or utility to what people can actually do and be, advocating for conditions that enable individuals to achieve their full potential. This approach highlights the significance of freedom and choice in determining quality of life, making it particularly relevant in discussions about global health inequities and social justice.

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 that focused solely on income or wealth.
2. This approach is particularly influential in the field of development studies and human rights, advocating for policies that enhance individuals' abilities to achieve valuable functionings.
3. By focusing on capabilities, this approach encourages a more holistic understanding of poverty and health disparities, recognizing that well-being is not just about material wealth.
4. The capabilities approach has been used to assess global health inequities, highlighting how social determinants like education, gender, and socioeconomic status affect individuals' health outcomes.
5. This framework promotes the idea that enhancing people's capabilities can lead to greater social justice by addressing systemic barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their potential.

Review Questions

• How does the capabilities approach differ from traditional measures of economic well-being when assessing health outcomes?
  • The capabilities approach diverges from traditional economic measures by focusing on what individuals can do with their resources rather than just the resources themselves. It emphasizes individual freedom and agency in making choices that impact health outcomes. This shift allows for a more comprehensive understanding of well-being, recognizing that simply having access to resources does not guarantee good health; rather, it's about whether individuals can utilize those resources effectively to improve their lives.
• Discuss how the capabilities approach can inform policies aimed at reducing global health inequities.
  • Policies informed by the capabilities approach prioritize enhancing individuals' abilities to achieve meaningful health outcomes rather than merely providing medical services or financial aid. This means addressing underlying social determinants such as education, gender equality, and income inequality. By focusing on expanding capabilities, these policies aim to empower marginalized communities, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities necessary to improve their own health and well-being, thereby contributing to greater social justice.
• Evaluate the implications of the capabilities approach for understanding the relationship between social justice and global health initiatives.
  • The implications of the capabilities approach for understanding social justice in global health initiatives are profound. It reframes health not just as a basic need but as an integral part of achieving human dignity and freedom. By linking health outcomes with broader issues of equity and capability enhancement, this approach encourages initiatives that consider systemic barriers faced by disadvantaged populations. Such evaluations prompt stakeholders to design interventions that not only treat illness but also foster an environment where all individuals can thrive, leading to sustainable improvements in global health equity.

Related terms

Functionings: Functionings refer to the various things a person may value doing or being, such as being healthy, educated, or engaged in social activities.

Social Justice: Social justice refers to the fair distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society, ensuring all individuals have access to essential resources and rights.

Inequality: Inequality refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges among different groups in society, which can lead to disparities in health and well-being.