Martha Nussbaum

Definition

Martha Nussbaum is a prominent philosopher and ethicist known for her work on capabilities and social justice, significantly influencing discussions around cosmopolitanism and global justice. Her theories advocate for the importance of individual capabilities as a measure of social arrangements, emphasizing that every person deserves to lead a flourishing life, which connects deeply with the principles of fairness and moral responsibility in an interconnected world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nussbaum's capabilities approach argues for the assessment of well-being based on what individuals can do with their lives, stressing the importance of personal development and autonomy.
2. She proposes a list of central capabilities that she believes should be guaranteed for all individuals to enable them to live a dignified life.
3. Nussbaum emphasizes the role of emotions and empathy in ethical considerations, arguing that understanding others' experiences is crucial for global justice.
4. Her work advocates for a cosmopolitan ethics that recognizes the moral significance of all human beings regardless of their nationality or background.
5. Nussbaum has written extensively on topics such as feminism, animal rights, and the intersection of philosophy with practical political issues, making her an influential figure in contemporary moral philosophy.

Review Questions

• How does Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach enhance our understanding of cosmopolitanism?
  • Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach enhances our understanding of cosmopolitanism by framing it around the idea that all individuals, regardless of their nationality, deserve access to essential capabilities that enable them to lead fulfilling lives. This perspective shifts the focus from mere economic measures to a more human-centered view, emphasizing dignity and individual potential. By advocating for universal standards for well-being, Nussbaum reinforces the cosmopolitan notion that our moral responsibilities extend beyond borders.
• In what ways does Nussbaum connect her theories to the idea of global justice?
  • Nussbaum connects her theories to global justice by arguing that social arrangements must ensure that every individual can achieve basic capabilities essential for human flourishing. Her emphasis on justice involves not only fairness in distribution but also the recognition of each person's unique needs and circumstances. By promoting policies that address inequalities and support individual capabilities, Nussbaum’s work provides a robust framework for addressing global injustices in a nuanced manner.
• Evaluate how Martha Nussbaum's views on emotions contribute to discussions about global citizenship and ethical responsibility.
  • Martha Nussbaum's views on emotions contribute significantly to discussions about global citizenship and ethical responsibility by highlighting the importance of empathy in understanding others' experiences. She argues that emotions are not merely personal feelings but can be foundational to ethical deliberation and moral actions. By fostering emotional connections across cultures, Nussbaum encourages individuals to see themselves as part of a global community, where understanding and compassion drive our responsibilities toward one another, thus deepening the commitment to social justice on an international scale.

Related terms

Capabilities Approach: A normative framework developed by Nussbaum and Amartya Sen, focusing on what individuals are capable of doing and being, rather than just their resources or utility.

Justice as Fairness: A concept introduced by John Rawls that argues for a structure of justice based on principles that ensure fair distribution of goods and opportunities.

Global Citizenship:

The idea that individuals have rights and responsibilities that transcend national borders, emphasizing a sense of belonging to a larger human community.