Capabilities, human rights and moral pluralism

Author: John Alexander

Source: The International Journal of Human Rights, Volume 8, Number 4, Winter 2004 , pp. 451-469(19)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum, the pioneers of the capability approach, have divergent views on human rights. Sen considers human rights to be a set of goals towards which every society could progress. In contrast, Nussbaum thinks of human rights as side constraints and as non-negotiable fundamental entitlements for international standard-setting and national public policy debates. The article critically examines the difference between these two views and explores the relation between the concept of capabilities and human rights. It argues for an approach of moral pluralism which could clarify and press forward pertinent issues relating to socio-economic rights and group rights.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/1364298042000283585

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