Capabilities at Work: The Added Value of the Capability Model for Well-Being and Work

This book examines how the capability approach offers fresh ways to think about work, well-being, and social justice. It argues that work should not only provide income but also empower people to achieve their life goals, develop skills, and participate fully in society. Drawing on research and real-world examples, Jac van der Klink and Sebastiaan Rothmann show how organisations and policies can enhance employees' health, satisfaction, and capabilities. The chapters explore how human resource management, public administration, and organisational leadership can create fairer workplaces by removing barriers that limit potential, improving the quality of work, and ensuring access to opportunities for all. A key theme is equity: work should reduce disparities and foster inclusion across gender, socio-economic, and cultural divides. Timely and relevant, the text appeals to academics, practitioners, policymakers, and advocates seeking practical ways to make work more meaningful. This title is also available Open Access on Cambridge Core.

Jac van der Klink is Emeritus Professor at Tilburg University, the Netherlands, and Extraordinary Professor at Northwest University, South Africa. He studied medicine and psychology and has worked as both a professional and scientist, specialising in the capability approach to work. Jac has published more than 250 scientific and professional articles and books.

Sebastiaan Rothmann is Professor of Industrial Psychology at North-West University, South Africa. He has published about work capabilities, well-being and performance in 277 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and books. The Society for Industrial/Organisational Psychology of South Africa awarded him a fellowship for his contributions to the science and practice.