In Sen's capability approach (1981, 1985, 2000, 2001), poverty means deprivation in different aspects of life. The aim of this study is to measure the multidimensional poverty in the counties of Northeast Region through the fuzzy set theory and Demographic Census data (IBGE, 2010). There were 19 indicators (functioning) divided into four dimensions: education, health, housing conditions and income. The results indicate poverty, highlighting the dimensions of income and education, particularly in the states of Maranhão, Alagoas, Piauí and Paraíba. Poverty reduction policies need to consider what are the deprivations suffered by people and the particularities of the place where they live.
poverty; capability approach; fuzzy set theory; Northeast Region; Brazil
