ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines a basis for methodological development, and provides examples of frameworks for research that have been utilised using the topic of housing as an example. The Capability Approach is a theoretical perspective rather than a fully realised theory of development, justice, social policy, or economics. The Capability Approach requires that we attend to multiple capabilities and their interdependence and interactivity. "One of the greatest challenges for its application is to incorporate this multidimensionality and complexity into any operational framework". The inclusion of agency maintains our awareness of the social location of different people and their freedom to make choices about valued functionings that is an essential aspect of Sen's Capability Approach. In the European Union and Australia, the Capability Approach has influenced a shift from a narrow focus on income to broader factors that constitute well-being, a focus on what people value, and increasing interest in disadvantage and social inclusion.
