Amartya Sen’s Theory of Human Capability
Amartya Sen’s Theory of Human Capabiltity is a theory of human development based upon the concept of freedom. In it, Sen argues that human capability, or the scope of an individual’s freedoms and potentials, is the central factor in determining their development. By expanding the definition of human development from its common metrics of economic growth to one which encompasses freedom, Sen postulates that human development is ultimately a result of the rate of human capabilities. The quality of life of any human being is determined by the level of freedoms and capabilities available to them, which in turn are largely dictated by the level of freedoms for the whole community.
Understanding Amartya Sen’s Theory
At its core, the theory proposes that human capability is a power that allows individuals to lead their lives with a certain degree of independence from external conditions. Human capabilities are therefore a measure of an individual’s capabilities to access and engage with different aspects of life and to pursue their own goals and objectives. According to Sen’s theory, human development is not measured only by economics, but by a much wider range of factors. These can include elements such as education, health, social relationships and environmental conditions.
The Three Core Aspects of Capability
The main idea behind the theory of capability is the notion of freedom. This involves three core aspects – liberty, capabilities and functionings. Liberty, in this sense, relates to the idea of freedom of choice, or the ability of people to make decisions without interference from outside forces. Capabilities, on the other hand, are the actual capabilities people have to pursue the freedoms that they have. Functionings, in this context, refer to the various activities an individual undertakes with their freedoms and capabilities.
Key Principles of Human Capabilities
The core principles of Sen’s Theory of Human Capabilities are as follows:
- Human Freedom is at the heart of development: The theory argues that the freedom from external control, oppression and coercion is the most important factor in determining human development.
- Development is the expansion of capabilities: Human development is defined as the increase of the capabilities of people to pursue what they value.
- Development should focus on enhancing people’s capabilities: When thinking about development, it is important to focus on enhancing the capabilities of people, rather than solely focussing on increasing economic growth or reducing poverty.
- Development should be viewed in a multi-dimensional way: Development should take into account the various dimensions of human life including education, health, and social relationships.
- All individuals should be considered in the development process: Sen’s theory argues that all individuals, regardless of their gender, age, race and social status, should be considered in the development process.
Applications of the Theory
The Theory of Human Capabilities has many applications in both theoretical and practical contexts. These include:
- Policymaking: Sen’s theory has been used as the basis for a variety of policy initiatives, from poverty reduction programmes to gender equality and education initiatives.
- Education: The theory has been used to design new educational programmes and curricula that focus on people’s capabilities, in addition to academic achievement.
- Healthcare: Sen’s theory has been used to inform healthcare reforms that focus on providing equal access to health care services, regardless of social or economic status.
- Social Welfare: The theory has been used to design welfare programmes that focus on improving people’s capabilities and access to resources, rather than simply providing financial assistance.
- Economics: The theory has been used to reshape economic policies and frameworks, placing emphasis on human capabilities instead of economic growth alone.
Amartya Sen’s Theory of Human Capabilities is a powerful and influential theory of human development. It proposes that human capability, or freedom from external control and coercion, is the most important factor in determining human development. According to the theory, human development should be viewed in a multi-dimensional way and should focus on enhancing people’s capabilities, rather than solely focussing on increasing economic growth or reducing poverty. The theory has been applied in many fields, from policymaking to education and economics, to help improve the quality of life of people across all walks of life.
