Amartya Sen

Definition

Amartya Sen is an Indian economist and philosopher known for his work on welfare economics, social choice theory, and the measurement of poverty and inequality. His ideas emphasize the importance of individual capabilities and freedoms as essential factors in assessing human development, highlighting that economic growth alone is insufficient without considering how it translates into improved quality of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1998 for his contributions to welfare economics and social choice theory.
2. He introduced the concept of 'entitlement' which examines how individuals' access to resources can affect their ability to escape poverty.
3. Sen's work has influenced international development policies by shifting the focus from purely economic growth to the enhancement of individual capabilities.
4. He emphasizes that gender inequality and discrimination are significant barriers to development, particularly in the context of poverty.
5. Sen's research on famines shows that they often occur not due to a lack of food but rather due to inequalities in distribution and access.

Review Questions

• How does Amartya Sen's Capabilities Approach provide a different perspective on poverty compared to traditional economic measures?
  • Amartya Sen's Capabilities Approach shifts the focus from mere income levels to what individuals can actually do with their resources, emphasizing their abilities and freedoms. This perspective recognizes that poverty isn't just about financial deprivation but also about the lack of opportunities and choices available to individuals. By evaluating well-being through capabilities, policymakers can address the root causes of poverty more effectively rather than just alleviating its symptoms.
• Discuss how Amartya Sen's ideas have influenced policies aimed at reducing global inequality.
  • Amartya Sen's emphasis on human capabilities has led to a reevaluation of policies aimed at reducing global inequality. His approach encourages a focus on enhancing education, health care access, and social inclusion as essential components for development. This shift has resulted in more comprehensive strategies that seek not only economic growth but also improvements in individual well-being, fostering an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
• Evaluate the implications of Sen's critique on traditional poverty measurement methods for understanding international migration patterns.
  • Sen's critique of traditional poverty measurement highlights how inadequate assessments can overlook critical factors influencing migration patterns. By focusing solely on income, policymakers may fail to recognize how capability deprivation—such as lack of access to education or health services—drives individuals to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Understanding these underlying issues is crucial for addressing refugee crises and crafting effective migration policies that consider the multifaceted nature of human displacement.

Related terms

Capabilities Approach: A theoretical framework developed by Sen that focuses on what individuals are able to do and to be, emphasizing the importance of enhancing people's capabilities for a better quality of life.

Human Development Index (HDI): A composite index used to measure a country's overall achievement in its social and economic development, taking into account life expectancy, education, and per capita income.

Poverty Measurement: The methods and tools used to assess poverty levels within populations, which Sen critiqued for often focusing solely on income rather than broader indicators of well-being.