Q. Compare Capability Deprivation Approach with that of Social Capital Deprivation in understanding Chronic Poverty. (20 Marks)

Q. Compare Capability Deprivation Approach with that of Social Capital Deprivation in understanding Chronic Poverty. (20 Marks)

Introduction

Chronic poverty is a condition in which individuals or households remain poor over a long period due to persistent structural disadvantages. While the Capability Deprivation Approach, developed by Amartya Sen, views poverty as the deprivation of basic capabilities, the Social Capital Deprivation Approach emphasizes the lack of social networks, trust, and community support as major causes of persistent poverty.

I. Capability Deprivation Approach

1. Poverty as Lack of Capabilities

Poverty is the inability to achieve valuable “functionings” and lead a life one has reason to value.
Example: A person may have income but lack access to quality healthcare or education.

2. Focus on Human Development

The approach stresses expanding education, health, nutrition, and freedom rather than merely increasing income.
Example: Human Development Index (HDI) measures well-being beyond income.

3. Individual Freedom and Choice

Development means expanding people’s opportunities and choices.
Example: Skill development programmes enhancing employability.

4. Multidimensional Nature of Poverty

Poverty includes social exclusion, ill health, illiteracy, and lack of political participation.
Example: Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI).

II. Social Capital Deprivation Approach

1. Poverty as Lack of Social Networks

Chronic poverty results from weak social relationships and limited access to supportive networks.
Example: Migrant workers lacking local community support.

2. Importance of Trust and Reciprocity

Trust and cooperation facilitate access to employment, credit, and social security.
Example: Self-Help Groups providing loans through mutual trust.

3. Collective Action

Strong community organizations enable poor households to overcome structural disadvantages.
Example: Women’s Self-Help Groups improving livelihoods in rural India.

4. Social Exclusion

Marginalized communities often remain poor because they are excluded from influential social networks.
Example: Dalit households facing discrimination in labour markets.

III. Comparison between the Two Approaches

Basis	Capability Deprivation	Social Capital Deprivation
Core Idea	Poverty as deprivation of capabilities and freedoms	Poverty as deprivation of social networks and trust
Focus	Individual well-being and human development	Community relationships and social connections
Key Resource	Education, health, skills, opportunities	Social networks, reciprocity, trust
Primary Solution	Expand capabilities through public investment	Strengthen community institutions and social participation
Major Thinker	Amartya Sen	Robert D. Putnam

IV. Critical Evaluation

1. Capability Approach Explains Structural Poverty

It highlights that income alone cannot eliminate chronic poverty.
Example: Malnutrition despite rising household income.

2. Social Capital Complements Capability

Capabilities often improve when individuals have access to supportive social networks.
Example: SHGs enhancing women’s entrepreneurship.

3. Both are Essential

Contemporary poverty is multidimensional and requires both capability enhancement and social inclusion.
Example: Aspirational Districts Programme combines education, health, and community participation.

Conclusion

The Capability Deprivation and Social Capital Deprivation approaches offer complementary explanations of chronic poverty. While Sen emphasizes expanding human capabilities and freedoms, the social capital perspective highlights the importance of networks, trust, and collective action. Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing persistent poverty.

Value Addition

Thinkers

• Amartya Sen – Capability Approach.
• Robert D. Putnam – Social Capital.
• Pierre Bourdieu – Social Capital as a resource.