The economist who defined human development

Dr Amartya Sen, the Nobel laureate economist known worldwide for his pioneering work on welfare economics, poverty, and human development, has spent his life advancing the ideals of social justice and individual freedoms. His work continues to inspire policymakers committed to reducing inequality and fostering inclusive growth worldwide.

Born on November 3, 1933, in Santiniketan, West Bengal, Sen’s life has been profoundly influenced by his early years at Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore. Sen has often shared how Santiniketan’s liberal, multicultural environment, enriched by Tagore’s philosophy, shaped his worldview and commitment to humanitarian values. This unique setting encouraged free thinking, creativity, and empathy — qualities that would later define Sen’s approach to economics and social policy.

As a student, Sen developed an interest in poverty, inequality, and the challenges facing rural India, experiences that steered him toward studying economics. He went on to study at Presidency College, Kolkata, and later at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he completed his PhD. He taught economics at a number of universities in India and England, including the Jadavpur University, Delhi School of Economics, London School of Economics, University of London and Oxford University, before moving to Harvard University, where he was professor of economics and philosophy, influencing generations of students with his critical approach to social issues through an economic lens.

One of his most ground-breaking contributions was his research on famines, which led to the publication of his influential work, ‘Poverty and Famines: An Essay on Entitlement and Deprivation’ (1981). Sen analysed the causes of famines beyond food supply, showing how economic policies and inequalities in food distribution often precipitate hunger crises. His studies on the Bengal famine of 1943 revealed that famines are not necessarily caused by food shortages but by systemic failures in entitlement — whereby certain segments of society cannot afford to access available resources.

This pioneering theory, known as the ‘entitlement approach’, transformed the field of welfare economics and earned Sen international acclaim. It underscored the need for policies that ensure equitable access to resources rather than simply boosting supplies. Sen’s research influenced organisations such as the United Nations and the World Bank in designing relief and development programmes that prioritise food security, equality, and social protections.

He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1998 for his ‘contributions to welfare economics’. The Nobel Committee specifically praised his focus on individual rights and social justice. Beyond his academic work, Sen was instrumental in developing the Human Development Index (HDI) with economist Mahbub ul Haq and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). HDI moved beyond traditional metrics like GDP, measuring a country’s development through life expectancy, education, and income indicators, offering a holistic view of societal progress.

This contribution marked a shift in economic theory toward recognising human well-being as the true indicator of prosperity. The HDI has become a widely used tool in assessing global development, guiding governments worldwide in shaping policies to improve quality of life.

Sen’s works have addressed pressing social issues, including gender inequality, healthcare, and education. His book ‘Development as Freedom’ (1999) argues that freedom is both the primary goal and the means of development, emphasising that societies can only progress by empowering individuals to realise their potential.

He was also awarded India’s highest civilian honour, Bharat Ratna, in 1999 for his contribution to welfare economics.

In October 2023, rumours of Sen’s demise circulated widely on social media, which were swiftly refuted. Supporters and followers expressed relief, underscoring the deep respect and admiration he commands globally. Despite health challenges, he continues to engage with critical global issues, advocating for social and economic justice.

Today, Sen’s legacy lives on through his contributions to economic thought and public policy. His principles of freedom, human dignity, and equality resonate deeply, inspiring future generations to create a world that prioritises human welfare. His enduring connection to Santiniketan — a place rooted in the ideals of intellectual freedom and humanity — symbolises his lifelong commitment to a more equitable world.