The capabilities approach to welfare (with Martha Nussbaum)

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Apr 27, 2023

Martha Nussbaum, Ernst Freund Distinguished Service Professor of Law and Ethics at the University of Chicago, delves into the capabilities approach to welfare, emphasizing individual abilities over traditional metrics like GDP. She debates the moral obligations we owe to animals, questioning whether zoos are ethical and exploring plant injustices. Nussbaum discusses how different species require tailored care, the complexities of human impact on animal welfare, and the urgent need for legislative reforms to protect sentient beings in various industries.

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INSIGHT

Capabilities Approach

The capabilities approach measures well-being by what people can do and be, not just income.
It emphasizes opportunities, not just outcomes.

INSIGHT

Core Capabilities

Ten core capabilities define minimal societal justice, including life, health, and affiliation.
These are opportunities for valued actions, not mandated actions, emphasizing individual choice.

INSIGHT

Flaws of Traditional Metrics

GDP per capita is flawed because it ignores distribution and non-monetary factors like health and education.
Preference satisfaction is also flawed, favoring passive satisfaction over active pursuits.

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