If human development is “multidimensional” then perhaps we need to discuss what we mean by multidimensional: what is a dimension, and what are the multiple dimensions of interest? This paper develops an account of dimensions of human development, and shows its usefulness and its limitations-both in general and in relation to Amartya Sen’s capability approach. The second half of the paper surveys other major “lists” of dimensions that have been published in poverty studies, cross-cultural psychology, moral philosophy, quality of life indicators, participatory development, and basic needs, and compares and contrasts them with the account sketched here.
