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The Capabilities Approach and Worker Wellbeing

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  • Lilian Miles

Abstract

Recently, scholars have attempted to apply the capabilities approach, as advanced by Amartya Sen, to the realm of labour. They argue that it provides a philosophical justification for a 'development' approach to labour regulation, supports the design of policies that promote workers' wellbeing and validates the institution of worker participation mechanisms. For labour proponents, this is an exciting prospect. This article argues that despite its promise for expanding workers' capabilities, certain ambiguities potentially impede the approach's utility, particularly in developing countries. We suggest ways in which it can be refined and developed to better serve the interests of labour in these contexts, notably by promoting collective and not merely individual capabilities.

Suggested Citation

  • Lilian Miles, 2014. "The Capabilities Approach and Worker Wellbeing," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 50(8), pages 1043-1054, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:jdevst:v:50:y:2014:i:8:p:1043-1054
    DOI: 10.1080/00220388.2013.866220
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    1. Fields, Gary S., 2012. "Working Hard, Working Poor: A Global Journey," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199794645, Decembrie.
    2. Fukuda-Parr, Sakiko & Kumar, A.K. Shiva (ed.), 2009. "Handbook of Human Development: Concepts, Measures, and Policies," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780195692334, Decembrie.
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    Cited by:

    1. William Monteith & Lena Giesbert, 2017. "‘When the stomach is full we look for respect’: perceptions of ‘good work’ in the urban informal sectors of three developing countries," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 31(5), pages 816-833, October.

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