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This paper explores the theoretical foundations of the capability approach, co-developed by Amartya K. Sen and Martha C. Nussbaum. Both thinkers revolutionized development studies by shifting the focus from economic development to human well-being and social justice. They argue that political theories should be grounded in ethical considerations, asserting that only a moral framework can effectively measure human development and well-being. Although they share this foundational premise, their interpretations differ significantly due to distinct philosophical lineages. Sen’s work, influenced by liberalism and Rawlsian procedural justice, positions individual freedom as both the means and the end of development. His emphasis on contextual adaptability allows for pluralistic, open-ended evaluations of well-being. He prioritizes agency and democratic deliberation over prescriptive metrics. In contrast, Nussbaum’s approach, drawing inspiration from Aristotelian ethics and feminism, underscores universal entitlements and proposes a structured framework in which certain entitlements are nonnegotiable. This paper analyzes the philosophical roots and critiques of their approaches to highlight their unique contributions to development studies. It also examines how Nussbaum has expanded the capability theory originally developed by Sen. Additionally, the study evaluates critiques of both perspectives, such as Sen’s lack of specified metrics and Nussbaum’s potential cultural bias, arguing that their integration offers a dynamic framework for addressing contemporary challenges.While their perspectives differ, this paper contends that integrating Sen’s pluralism with Nussbaum’s universalism provides a balanced approach to tackling global inequalities and advancing social justice. Their combined approach prioritizes human flourishing over GDP growth, redefining the parameters of development. Keywords: Capability Approach, Capabilities, Functionings, Freedom, Opportunities, Well-being, Development.