Social And Political Justice: The Capability Approach

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In recent years, the Capability Approach has emerged as a promising framework for achieving social and political justice. Developed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum, the Capability Approach emphasizes the importance of promoting individuals' capabilities to pursue their own goals and aspirations, rather than simply focusing on economic growth or the distribution of resources. This approach emphasizes the importance of human dignity and the freedom to live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. The Capability Approach recognizes that social and political justice requires not only equal access to resources but also the freedom and agency to use those resources to achieve one's goals and aspirations. The purpose of the research paper titled …show more content…

This includes not only formal political institutions such as voting and representation but also informal channels such as social movements and civil society organizations. The Capability Approach is relevant to political justice because it emphasizes the importance of giving people a voice and empowering them to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives. It is also relevant to social justice because it recognizes that social and economic inequalities can impact people's capabilities and opportunities and that these inequalities need to be addressed to achieve a just and equitable society. Sen “builds his Capability Approach by criticizing traditional welfare economics that is based on utilitarian assumptions. He opposes the conflation of wellbeing with income or with the utility” (Rajapakse, 5). Capability-based political justice models seek to promote political equality by ensuring that all individuals have the capability to participate fully in political processes. This requires policies and interventions that address social inequalities that may limit individuals' capabilities to participate, such as discrimination based on race, gender, or disability. “For advocates of the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly persons with mental …show more content…

Sen argues that education is a key capability that enables individuals, particularly women, to participate fully in society and pursue their own goals and aspirations. He emphasizes the importance of addressing social norms and structural inequalities that limit opportunities and capabilities for women, such as discrimination based on gender, race, or class. This example provides many success lessons. Sen's approach has contributed to a growing recognition of the importance of education and women's empowerment in promoting social and political justice. This has resulted in a range of policy interventions, including investments in education and healthcare, as well as efforts to address gender-based discrimination and promote gender equality. Sen's approach has also faced challenges, particularly in the context of developing countries where resources are limited and political will is often weak. There is also a need to address social norms and cultural practices that limit opportunities and capabilities for women, which requires a long-term and sustained effort to engage with diverse stakeholders and promote cultural change. On the other hand, the success of Sen's approach suggests that capability-based strategies can be effective in promoting social and political justice, particularly in the context of addressing gender-based discrimination