"Surplus in Man" and the capability-based sustained/total human development

In: International Journal of Development Issues, Band 13, Heft 3, S. 260-275

Abstract

Purpose
– This paper aims to define a capability-based sustained/total human development, after reviewing both the concept of "Surplus in Man" as the source for achieving the Vedântic ideal of transcendence, and the capability approach to human development.


Design/methodology/approach
– The capability-based sustained/total human development has been defined by integrating the Vedântic concept of "Surplus in Man" and the deontological theories of morality into the basic approach to capability-based human development.


Findings
– An answer to the question: "How to apply a holistic approach to our daily life?" is outlined.


Practical implications
– An example is provided on the role of yoga and meditation as the key initial bridging forces between the Western and Eastern concept of mental health. Also, the recent trend in a morally demanding lifestyle of a section of people in the Western societies for moving towards a galloping spiritual pluralism has been exemplified.


Originality/value
– Role of responsibility of an individual human being along with his or her right has explicitly been emphasized in the approach to capability-based sustained/total human development.