Wellbeing Economics The Capabilities Approach to Prosperity

• Main Author: Dalziel, Paul (auth)
• Other Authors: Saunders, Caroline (auth), Saunders, Joe (auth)
• Format: Electronic Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer Nature 2018
• Series: Wellbeing in Politics and Policy
• Subjects: Political structure & processes; Public administration; Economic theory & philosophy; Economic growth; Political economy; Economics; Management science; Welfare economics; Public policy; Political science; Economic policy
• Online Access: OAPEN Library: download the publication; OAPEN Library: description of the publication

Economists have long sought to maximise economic growth, believing this to be their best contribution to improving human welfare. That approach is not sustainable in the face of ongoing issues such as global climate change, environmental damage, rising inequality and enduring poverty. Alternatives must be found. This open access book addresses that challenge. It sets out a wellbeing economics framework that directly addresses fundamental issues affecting wellbeing outcomes. Drawing inspiration from the capabilities approach of Nobel Prize winner Amartya Sen, the book demonstrates how persons can enhance prosperity through their own actions and through collaboration with others. The book examines national public policy, but its analysis also focuses on choices made by individuals, households, families, civil society, local government and the global community. It therefore offers important insights for anyone concerned with improving personal wellbeing and community prosperity.