Define Capability Approach of Amartya Sen.
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The Capability Approach, formulated by Nobel laureate economist and philosopher Amartya Sen, is a comprehensive framework for evaluating well-being and development. Unlike traditional approaches that focus solely on income or resources, Sen's approach centers on individuals' capabilities — their freedom to achieve valuable functionings.
Capabilities, in Sen's context, are the various valuable activities and states of being that a person can choose to engage in, such as being healthy, educated, or having the ability to participate in social and political activities. Sen contends that focusing on capabilities provides a more accurate and nuanced understanding of human welfare than relying solely on material resources.
The Capability Approach places a strong emphasis on human agency and the ability to pursue one's life goals. It calls for policies and interventions that enhance individuals' freedoms, removing barriers that impede their ability to lead lives they value. Sen argues that evaluating development solely based on economic metrics neglects essential aspects of human well-being and justice.
This approach has influenced various fields, from development economics to social policy, by encouraging a broader perspective that encompasses diverse dimensions of human flourishing. It seeks to ensure that individuals not only have access to resources but also the real opportunities and freedoms to lead lives that align with their own values and aspirations.