The capability approach, an increasingly popular conceptual and theoretical framework focused on what individuals are able to do and be, offers a unique evaluative perspective to social policy analysis. This book explores the advantages of this approach and offers a way forward in addressing conceptual and empirical issues as they apply specifically to social policy research and practice. Short conceptual and empirical chapters provide clear examples of how policies shape the capabilities of different groups and individuals, critically assessing the efficacy of different social policies across multiple social policy fields, providing both academic and practitioner viewpoints.

Contributions by: Erik Jansen, Jose de Sao Jose, Franceso Laruffa, Mary Murphy, Rory Hearne, Mara Yerkes, Anna Kurowska, Liz Oliver, Virpi Timonen, Jean-Michel Bonvin