View development as freedom

Author: Amartya Sen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-07-01
Features: In this book, Amartya Sen eloquently, concisely, and comprehensively elucidates the concept that economic development, by its very nature, is growth rooted in freedom. He uses historical examples, empirical evidence, and compelling yet rigorous analysis to demonstrate that broadly and appropriately conceived development is not hostile to freedom; rather, 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 the fields of fundamental economic theory, empirical research, and moral–political philosophy. The 1998 Nobel laureate in Economics, Amartya Sen, redefines the narrow paradigm of development, articulating that the substance of human freedoms is both the ultimate goal and a crucial means of development, establishing an entirely new theoretical framework. The book argues that development is a comprehensive process encompassing economics, politics, society, values, and more, 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 will. 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 also points out that governments and societies must bear responsibility in areas such as human survival, health, and education. Moreover, he stresses that individuals, as the agents of development, must play an active role in comprehensive social interaction and transformation.