The Capability Approach, Technology and Design: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead

Abstract

This introduction to the book The Capability Approach, Technology and Design consists of five parts. After a very short general introduction, I will first briefly present the capability approach, including the main concepts and debates about it. Next, I will – in an extensive literature review – take stock of what has been published so far on the capability approach, technology and design – what are the most interesting themes, discussions and ways of applying the approach? This will be divided in two sections: one on technology in general and one, more specifically, on ICT. Then I will highlight some interesting points and recurring themes from the different chapters of this book. I will end with some final reflections on the future of this emerging research topic.