The Philosophical Foundations of Social Work

The philosophical foundations of social work are explored in this book, with a focus on how they inform practice, education, and training. It raises questions about ethical theories, logical reasoning, scientific inquiry, and aesthetics, and how they can shed light on the nature of social work. The second edition is revised and updated to address contemporary challenges, including the role of non-Western philosophical perspectives and social workers' commitments to multiculturalism, feminism, and antiracism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 06 September 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Social work is a multifaceted field that relies on a range of complex philosophical assumptions to guide its practice, education, and training. In his book, Frederic G. Reamer delves into the profound implications of these philosophical principles for social work and its broader impact on society.

Reamer's exploration spans various domains of philosophical inquiry, including moral and political philosophy, logic, epistemology, and aesthetics. He raises thought-provoking questions such as how ethical theories can inform social workers' moral judgments, how canons of inductive and deductive logic contribute to their thinking about their work, how scientific inquiry can help them understand the nature and effects of their interventions, and how concepts related to aesthetics can shed light on the essence of social work.

Throughout his nuanced inquiry, Reamer maintains a clear focus on the practical applications of philosophy to social work practice. He examines how these philosophical principles can be applied to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, as well as to broader goals of social change. Reamer's approach is grounded in the belief that social work is not merely a technical profession but a deeply ethical and philosophical endeavor.

In this second edition of The Philosophical Foundations of Social Work, Reamer has revised and updated the text to address contemporary challenges and emerging perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating non-Western philosophical perspectives and the relevance of philosophy to social workers' commitments to multiculturalism, feminism, and antiracism.

By exploring the philosophical foundations of social work, Reamer provides social workers with a valuable framework for understanding their profession's ethical and philosophical dimensions. His book offers insights into the core values, principles, and theories that shape social work practice and encourages social workers to reflect on their work in a deeper and more meaningful way.

In conclusion, The Philosophical Foundations of Social Work is a crucial resource for social workers, educators, and scholars interested in advancing the field's understanding and practice. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the philosophical assumptions that underpin social work and their profound implications for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. Through his thoughtful and engaging writing, Reamer empowers social workers to approach their work with a renewed sense of purpose, integrity, and compassion.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231203968
Edition number: second edition