Question

Which of the following does not explain the relationship between human development and economic development?

• A. Capability expansion through economic growth
• B. Capability expansion through poverty reduction
• C. Capability expansion through social services
• D. Capability expansion through environmental degradation

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question explores the relationship between human development and economic development through various means of capability expansion. Let's analyze each option: 

1. Capability expansion through economic growth: Economic growth enhances people's ability to access resources, services, and opportunities, fostering human development. This is a standard perspective linking economic and human development.
2. Capability expansion through poverty reduction: Reducing poverty directly improves people's lives by increasing their ability to participate in society and access essential services, thus promoting human development. This reflects a direct positive relationship.
3. Capability expansion through social services: Access to social services like education and healthcare is fundamental for human development, as it increases individual capabilities and societal well-being. This also underscores a positive relationship with economic development.
4. Capability expansion through environmental degradation: Environmental degradation typically harms human capabilities by reducing access to clean air, water, and other resources necessary for a healthy life. This does not support human development and indeed contradicts the objective of sustainable economic growth.

The correct answer is Capability expansion through environmental degradation as it negatively impacts human development, opposing the goals of economic development.

Answer 2

The statement that does not explain the relationship between human development and economic development is "Capability expansion through environmental degradation".

Additional Context:

• Human Development Index (HDI) pillars:
  • Health, education, and living standards
  • Environmental sustainability is prerequisite
• Why option 4 is incorrect:
  • Environmental degradation undermines long-term capabilities
  • Contradicts sustainable development goals
• Valid relationships (options 1-3):
  • Economic growth enables better healthcare/education access
  • Poverty reduction expands life choices
  • Social services directly enhance capabilities
• Key theorists:
  • Amartya Sen's capability approach
  • UNDP's integrated development framework

Correct Answer: (4) Capability expansion through environmental degradation.