Human Development

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Human Development is a multidimensional concept that refers to the process of expanding human freedoms and potentials. It is primarily concerned with the development of people's capabilities, such as their ability to lead long and healthy lives, to be knowledgeable, to have access to resources needed for a decent standard of living, and to be able to participate in the life of their community.

Definition[edit | edit source]

The concept of Human Development was first introduced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its Human Development Report in 1990. The report defined human development as a process of enlarging people's choices, with the most critical ones being to lead a long and healthy life, to be educated, and to enjoy a decent standard of living. Additional choices include political freedom, guaranteed human rights, and self-respect.

Dimensions of Human Development[edit | edit source]

Human development encompasses three dimensions:

  1. Health: This dimension is measured by life expectancy at birth.
  2. Education: This dimension is measured by mean years of schooling for adults aged 25 years and more and expected years of schooling for children of school entering age.
  3. Living standards: This dimension is measured by gross national income per capita.

Human Development Index[edit | edit source]

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a summary measure of average achievement in key dimensions of human development. It is a composite index that includes indicators for health (life expectancy at birth), education (mean years of schooling for adults and expected years of schooling for children), and living standards (gross national income per capita).

Criticisms of the Human Development Concept[edit | edit source]

While the human development concept has been widely adopted, it has also been criticized. Some critics argue that it is too broad and vague, while others contend that it is too narrowly focused on economic growth. Some also question the reliability and validity of the HDI.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Human Development Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD