Use models and graphs when necessary e Explain Sens capabili

Use models and graphs when necessary.

e. Explain Sen’s capability approach to development. What are the merits and limitations of this approach?

Solution

Sen’s capability approach is the various combinations of functionings that the person can achieve or a set of vectors of functionings, reflecting the person’s freedom lead one type of life or another. Sen’s key contribution has been to unite freedom and valuable beings and doings. The direct indicators of functionings are asset index, body mass index, income, and self-reported health. Freedom is the real opportunity we have to accomplish what we value.

The Human Development Index developed by Amartya Sen for the United Nations Development program is the most influential capability metric currently used. Sen/s emphasis on individual effective freedom as the focal concern of Capability Approach has been criticized as excessively individualistic. Some communitarians see Sen’s account as lacking interest in, and sometimes overtly hostile to communal values and way of life.

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