ABSTRACT
Developed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum, the capabilities approach maintains that we ought to focus on what people actually experience rather than assuming conformity with the ideals promised by various theories of justice, especially the one proposed by John Rawls. The chapter investigates the claim that we need to concentrate on the injustices suffered by millions on our planet. It emphasises the freedom that individuals actually have to do certain things and attain certain goals. Nussbaum lists a number of essential capabilities which echo some of Aquinas' notions. She applies those which are relevant, to animals and, criticising utilitarian and other theories, seeks to show how they fail to attend to the practical needs of nonhumans. The chapter considers the criticisms levelled at this approach by several writers.
