- 1. In his seminal work 'Development as Freedom', Amartya Sen presents a profound rethinking of the concept of development, asserting that true development should be understood not merely as economic growth, but as a process that expands the freedoms and capabilities of individuals. Sen argues that human well-being is fundamentally about enhancing the capacities of people to lead the lives they value, emphasizing that development should address inequalities and empower marginalized communities. Through a compelling analysis, he highlights the intrinsic link between freedom and development, illustrating how political freedoms, economic facilities, social opportunities, and protective security are integral to fostering human agency. Sen critiques traditional development metrics that focus solely on income and GDP, advocating for a broader perspective that includes education, health, and participation in civic life as essential components of a more equitable society. Overall, 'Development as Freedom' serves as a transformative manifesto that not only challenges policymakers and economists to reconsider the goals of development but also inspires a global discourse on justice, democracy, and the fundamental rights of individuals to choose their own paths in life.
What is the central argument in Amartya Sen's 'Development as Freedom'?
A) Freedom is a barrier to effective development.
B) Development is measured by economic growth alone.
C) Development is the expansion of human freedoms.
D) Development requires limiting individual liberties.
- 2. What does Sen mean by 'substantive freedoms'?
A) Economic liberty alone.
B) Freedom from government regulation.
C) Political rights only.
D) The capabilities to achieve valued functionings.
- 3. How does Sen view the relationship between freedom and development?
A) Freedom is irrelevant to development.
B) Development requires restricting freedoms.
C) Freedom follows after development is achieved.
D) Freedom is both the end and means of development.
- 4. What does Sen mean by 'functionings'?
A) The efficiency of economic systems.
B) The various things a person can do or be.
C) Government administrative procedures.
D) Mathematical operations in economics.
- 5. What role does democracy play in Sen's development framework?
A) It always hinders economic growth.
B) It's unnecessary for economic development.
C) It's crucial for protecting freedoms and preventing disasters.
D) It's only relevant for wealthy nations.
- 6. What does Sen mean by 'development as capability expansion'?
A) Increasing people's ability to live valuable lives.
B) Developing natural resources only.
C) Expanding military capabilities.
D) Increasing industrial production capacity.
- 7. How does Sen view the relationship between different types of freedom?
A) They are interconnected and reinforce each other.
B) They are independent and unrelated.
C) Political freedom undermines economic development.
D) Economic freedom is the only important one.
- 8. How does Sen view the role of education in development?
A) As a luxury that follows economic growth.
B) As crucial for expanding capabilities and agency.
C) As irrelevant to economic development.
D) As only important for elite populations.
- 9. What does Sen mean by 'agency'?
A) International development organizations.
B) A person's ability to act and bring about change.
C) Business corporations and enterprises.
D) Government administrative organizations.
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