Towards a capability approach to careers: Applying Amartya Sen's thinking

Robertson, Peter J.

Abstract

Amartya Sen’s capability approach characterizes an individual’s well-being in terms of what they are able to be, and what they are able to do. This framework for thinking has many commonalities with the core ideas in career guidance. Sen’s approach is abstract and not in itself a complete or explanatory theory, but a case can be made that the capability approach has something to offer career theory when combined with a life-career developmental approach. It may also suggest ways of working that are consistent with educational (human capital) approaches to development in emerging economies.

Citation

Robertson, P. J. (2015). Towards a capability approach to careers: Applying Amartya Sen's thinking. International Journal for Educational and Vocational Guidance, 15(1), 75-88. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10775-014-9280-4

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 4, 2014
• Online Publication Date: Oct 4, 2014
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2015
• Deposit Date: Sep 9, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 12, 2016
• Journal: International Journal for Educational and Vocational Guidance
• Print ISSN: 0251-2513
• Electronic ISSN: 1573-1782
• Publisher: BMC
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 15
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 75-88
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10775-014-9280-4
• Keywords: Career guidance; Capability approach; Economic development
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/377844