This link has been bookmarked by 3 people . It was first bookmarked on 17 Apr 2008, by Arabica Robusta.
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27 Feb 12
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Born in India, Amartya Kumar Sen, is a Cambridge scholar and leading political economist. From his book, first published in 1999, it is clear that he is an advocate for development that is rooted in economic development and the fundamental principles of social justice and human rights. In the book, he explores the relationship between freedom and development, stating that freedom should be seen as both a means and an end to development.
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In clear, simple language Sen sets off with an outlook of the five types of interrelated freedoms, of which political freedom, economic facilities, social opportunities, transparency and security, are a part. His first three chapters focus on this, weaving rather elegantly the relationship between individual freedom and the achievement of social development.
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Using historical examples, empirical evidence and analysis, Sen argues, very convincingly, that what people can achieve (their capabilities) is influenced by “economic opportunities, political liberties, social powers, and the enabling condition of good health, basic education, and the encouragement and cultivation of initiatives.”
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On the issue of women’s literacy and employment, he is quite vocal, pointing out that enhancing women’s agency, as well as their well-being, is critical to development.
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Sen draws one’s attention to the capabilities of people to do things and the substantive freedoms to live the kind of lives that they have reason to value.
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Of great value is the broad range of topics his book addresses.
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21 Jun 08
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17 Apr 08
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