ABSTRACT
In the context of impairment and disability, capability theory is often discussed in connection with the values of freedom and autonomy. The concepts of functioning and capability are found to assist understanding of the distinction between impairment – conceived as a restriction in functioning – and disability – conceived as any consequent limitation in capability. The capability argument leads to 'basic capability equality', an approach based on a view of living as a combination of various 'doings and beings', with quality of life assessed in terms of the capability to achieve valuable functionings. The capability of a person represents a set of functionings – the range of functionings a person can achieve. Freedom is integral to Sen's account of capability: 'capability reflects the 'person's freedom to lead one type of life or another', and capability to achieve functionings 'constitute the person's freedom – the real opportunities – to have well being'.
