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How do Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum approach the idea of global justice?

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The Code of Hammurabi diorite stela, with carved figures at the top showing Hammurabi seated with cuneiform inscriptions below. — Political philosophy Diorite stela inscribed with the Code of Hammurabi, 18th century bce.

In the context of political philosophy, Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum are central figures in the development of the capabilities approach, a framework that shifts the focus of global justice from mere economic metrics to the actual capacities of individuals to lead lives they have reason to value.12

The Capabilities Approach

Pioneered by Amartya Sen within the fields of development and welfare economics, this approach evaluates political arrangements and social justice based on whether they foster or frustrate individual capacities. Rather than focusing solely on income or resources, the framework assesses whether people possess the real freedom to engage in activities essential to human functioning.12

Nussbaum’s Contribution

Martha Nussbaum adapted and expanded this framework into a normative theory of justice. She argues that a just society must ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve a threshold of "central capabilities," such as:
* Bodily health and integrity.
* The ability to use one's mind, protected by freedom of expression.
* The capacity for emotional attachments.
* The ability to participate meaningfully in political decision-making.12

Nussbaum defends this as a form of liberal universalism, grounded in the inherent dignity and autonomy of every person, while rejecting ethical relativism.2