View development as freedom

Author: Amartya Sen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-07-01
Features: In this book, Amartya Sen elegantly, concisely, and comprehensively elaborates on the concept that economic development, by its very nature, is growth in freedom. He uses historical examples, empirical evidence, and powerful yet rigorous analysis to demonstrate that broadly and appropriately conceived development is not hostile to freedom; on the contrary, it is precisely composed of the expansion of freedom. Development as Freedom is a landmark work that synthesizes Amartya Sen's outstanding achievements over the years in fundamental economic theory, empirical research, and moral–political philosophy. The 1998 Nobel laureate in Economics, Sen challenges the narrow paradigm of development and explains that the substantive freedom of individuals is both the ultimate goal and an important means of development, establishing a new theoretical framework. The book argues that development is a comprehensive process involving economics, politics, society, values, and many other aspects, meaning the elimination of poverty, personal bondage, various forms of discrimination and oppression, the lack of rule of law, and social security, thereby enhancing people's ability to live according to their own wishes. Based on extensive empirical research, Sen analyzes major issues faced by developing countries and clarifies practical and effective solutions. While emphasizing the foundational and significant contributions of market mechanisms and globalization to improving people's living standards, he points out that governments and society must also take responsibility in areas such as human survival, health, and education. Moreover, he stresses that individuals must play an active role as the subjects of development in comprehensive social interaction and transformation.