Martha Nussbaum

Definition

Martha Nussbaum is a prominent American philosopher known for her work in ethics, political philosophy, and the capabilities approach, which emphasizes human flourishing and the importance of social justice. Her theories connect to social movements and collective action by providing a framework for understanding how individuals can pursue dignity, equality, and empowerment within society, particularly for marginalized groups. Nussbaum’s emphasis on empathy and narrative as tools for understanding others plays a crucial role in shaping collective identities and motivating social change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nussbaum argues that emotions play a crucial role in ethical decision-making and motivating action within social movements.
2. Her work often highlights the significance of narrative in understanding the experiences of others, which can inspire collective action.
3. Nussbaum has advocated for the inclusion of marginalized voices in discussions about social justice, emphasizing their unique perspectives on capabilities.
4. She emphasizes the importance of education in developing the skills necessary for individuals to engage in collective action effectively.
5. Nussbaum's theories challenge traditional economic measures of development by focusing on human well-being and the capabilities necessary to achieve it.

Review Questions

• How does Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach relate to the goals of social movements?
  • Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach is closely related to social movements because it emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. This approach advocates for providing people with the necessary opportunities to flourish, aligning with the objectives of many social movements that seek justice and equality. By focusing on what individuals can do and be, her framework supports the idea that social change must involve enhancing capabilities, particularly for marginalized groups.
• In what ways does Nussbaum argue that emotions contribute to effective collective action?
  • Nussbaum argues that emotions are integral to motivating individuals toward collective action because they foster connections between people. Emotions like empathy allow individuals to relate to one another's experiences, creating a sense of solidarity necessary for social movements. She believes that when people understand and feel the struggles of others, they are more likely to join together in efforts to advocate for change, thus highlighting the emotional underpinnings of effective activism.
• Evaluate how Nussbaum's emphasis on narrative can impact social justice initiatives and collective identity formation.
  • Nussbaum's emphasis on narrative significantly impacts social justice initiatives by fostering a deeper understanding of diverse experiences among individuals involved. By prioritizing personal stories, activists can create stronger connections and emphasize shared struggles, helping to form a collective identity rooted in empathy. This approach not only validates individual experiences but also mobilizes communities around common goals, facilitating greater engagement in social movements aimed at achieving equity and justice.

Related terms

Capabilities Approach: A theoretical framework developed by Nussbaum and Amartya Sen that focuses on what individuals are able to do and be, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for all to achieve well-being.

Social Justice: The concept of creating a fair and equal society where all individuals have equal access to resources and opportunities, often discussed in relation to political movements and reforms.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which Nussbaum argues is essential for moral development and fostering connections that drive social change.