Collaboration for a Liberative Praxis: A Dialogue Between Capability Approach and Catholic Social Teaching in the Socio-Political Context of India

Abstract

This article examines the convergence and divergence between Catholic Social Teaching (CST) and Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach (CA) at metaethical, normative, and practical levels. It argues that the metaphysical supernaturalism inherent in CST offers a potential philosophical framework for reconciling their ontological differences, thereby fostering meaningful dialogue between them, resulting in a shared commitment to integral development, human dignity, and the fight against injustice and marginalization. Furthermore, the article proposes that the distinction between proximate and ultimate justifications within Catholic theology could reconcile the epistemological differences, facilitating mutual dialogue between the scholars of Catholic Social Teaching and Sen’s Capability Approach. The article illustrates the usefulness of such mutual dialogue in the Indian context, highlighting its relevance in addressing the socio-political challenges of the rise of Hindu nationalism and economic inequality.