Martha Nussbaum: The Feminist and Political Philosopher

At the heart of Nussbaum’s intellectual journey is the development of the capabilities approach, a framework she co-created with economist Amartya Sen. This approach is centered on the idea that justice should be evaluated based on individuals’ abilities to function and achieve various important life goals, rather than simply on income or wealth. The capabilities approach emphasizes human dignity and focuses on the conditions that allow people to live lives they have reason to value. It challenges traditional views of social justice by broadening the scope of what constitutes a flourishing life beyond mere economic success.

Nussbaum’s feminist philosophy is also pivotal in understanding her work. As an advocate for gender equality, she has critiqued traditional philosophical frameworks that have marginalized women’s voices and experiences. Her feminist perspective emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse and often undervalued roles that women play in society, and she works toward reshaping institutions to ensure that women’s capabilities are supported and nurtured. Nussbaum argues that feminism is not just about advocating for women’s rights but also about advancing a more inclusive and just society for all people, regardless of gender.