The Capability Approach and Distributive Justice

Ingrid Robeyns*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

In its most general description, the capability approach is a flexible and multi-purpose normative framework, rather than a precise theory of well-being, freedom, or justice. At its core are two normative claims: first, that the freedom to achieve well-being is of primary moral importance, and second, that freedom to achieve well-being is to be understood in terms of people’s capabilities, that is, their substantive opportunities to do and be what they have reason to value. This framework can be used for a range of evaluative exercises, including (1) the assessment of well-being; (2) the normative assessment of social arrangements; and (3) the design or critique of policies, practices, and social institutions. In all these normative endeavors, the capability approach prioritizes (a selection of) peoples’ beings and doings and their opportunities to realize those beings and doings (such as their genuine opportunities to be educated, and their ability to move around or to enjoy supportive social relationships). This stands in contrast to other accounts of well-being, which focus exclusively on subjective categories (such as happiness or desire-satisfaction) or on the means to achieve well-being, such as resources.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Routledge Companion to Social and Political Philosophy
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Pages458-468
Number of pages11
Edition2
ISBN (Electronic)9781040147740
ISBN (Print)9781032533452
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 26 Nov 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2025 selection and editorial matter, Gerald Gaus, Fred D’Agostino, and Ryan Muldoon; individual chapters, the contributors.

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