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What are needs?

In: Human Needs and the Welfare State

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Abstract

This chapter focuses on an analysis of the concept of need. The aim being to try to distil what, in fact, needs are. This includes, as Beveridge has already pointed out, wants as one of the five evils although without defining needs. Therefore, “wants” in itself naturally does not indicate what is needed. The chapter will discuss especially from a more philosophical approach what can be, and is often, understood as needs. It includes looking further at what may be basic needs for a person to be able to live a life, albeit not necessarily in a good way. Sen and Nussbaum’s concepts of capability are included as elements given that having the necessary capabilities might equip individuals with better options to cope with a variety of different needs. Threads are also drawn back to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Suggested Citation

  • ., 2024. "What are needs?," Chapters, in: Human Needs and the Welfare State, chapter 2, pages 13-29, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:22429_2
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    File URL: https://www.elgaronline.com/doi/10.4337/9781035314270.00008
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