Concept Explanation

Functionings are the various things a person values doing or being,

The Core Concepts: while capabilities represent the real opportunities individuals have
Functionings and to achieve those valuable functionings. This distinction between
Capabilities what one can do (capabilities) and what one actually does
(functionings) is central to Sen's capability approach.

The capability approach accommodates interpersonal variations in

How Does the converting commodities into functionings, considering diversity
Capability Approach arising from individual or social factors. Sen emphasizes the
Account for Diversity? importance of human diversity in evaluating well-being,
highlighting its fundamental role within the capability approach.

Capabilities refer to the real opportunities individuals have to

What Are Capabilities, achieve valuable functionings. Basic capabilities are essential for a
Basic Capabilities, and minimally decent life, while fundamental capabilities are those
Fundamental necessary for human dignity and agency. Understanding these
Capabilities distinctions is crucial in assessing well-being within the capability
approach.

The capability approach is primarily an opportunity-based theory,

Is the Capability
focusing on individuals' real freedoms and opportunities to achieve
Approach an
valuable functionings. Unlike outcome-based theories that
Opportunity or an
prioritize end results, the capability approach emphasizes the
Outcome-Based
importance of capabilities as essential for enhancing human well-
Theory
being.

Formalizing the capability approach involves developing

How Can Capability frameworks or models to measure and analyze individuals'
Approach Be capabilities and functionings. While Sen has provided some
Formalized formalizations of the approach, further work is needed to create
robust methodologies