Question

Identify the correct statements about welfare approach of human development.
It looks at human beings as beneficiaries of all development activities.
It argues for higher government expenditure on education, health, and social amenities.
Its focus is on building human capabilities.
It considers government responsible for increasing levels of human development by maximising expenditure on welfare.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (B), (C) and (D) only
• D. (A), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The welfare approach focuses on beneficiaries of development activities and higher government expenditure. Capability approach focuses on building capabilities.

Answer 2

The two approaches, welfare and capability, offer distinct perspectives on development and human well-being.

• Welfare Approach: This approach primarily focuses on the well-being of individuals by ensuring they are beneficiaries of development activities. It emphasizes higher government expenditure aimed at improving living standards through welfare programs, such as subsidies, public healthcare, and education. It’s rooted in providing direct assistance to address poverty and deprivation, often through redistributive policies. However, critics argue that it may create dependency on state support without promoting long-term self-sufficiency or individual empowerment.
• Capability Approach: Proposed by economist Amartya Sen, the capability approach shifts focus from just economic outcomes to the development of individuals' abilities to achieve valuable functions and activities. Instead of merely measuring development through income or material goods, this approach prioritizes the capacity of people to lead a life they have reason to value. It emphasizes building capabilities—such as education, health, and freedom of choice—so that people can pursue their aspirations and improve their quality of life. It advocates for policies that expand freedoms and opportunities, enabling individuals to flourish and make their own life choices.

While the welfare approach focuses on providing immediate relief through redistribution, the capability approach seeks to enhance long-term well-being by promoting freedom, choice, and self-sufficiency.