Capabilities and the Common Good

The author explores some of the connections that can be made between the concept of the common good and the capabilities approach to development. Although widely used in the social teaching of the Church, the definition of the common good found in the social encyclicals is often vague and requires further explanation. In drawing from the work of Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum the author seeks to show how the idea of capabilities can assist our understanding of the common good. In addition, it is suggested that the language of capabilities and the common good could contribute significantly to current public debate. Both concepts place an emphasis on integral human development which provides a starting point for a more holistic social discourse.