A model of transformative ecosocial practice: Challenging modernist assumptions in social work

Research output: Other contribution to conferencePresentation onlypeer-review

Abstract

This presentation conceptualises an ecosocial work model that aims to challenge the dominant modernist paradigm underpinning conventional social work practice. In the context of an accelerating global environmental crisis that threatens the ecology upon which humanity depends, there is an urgent imperative for social workers to reposition their practice towards fulfilment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Yet, inherent modernist assumptions underpinning conventional social work in industrialised nations restrain social workers from genuinely being able to address ecological and social problems. These modernist assumptions relating to individualism, industrialisation and capitalism view humans as separate to the natural world, which encourages alienation and a culture of domination towards the misuse of the natural environment. By adopting a distinct philosophical base that emphasises holism and inter-dependence, the profession can re-conceptualise a philosophical base that is congruent across the ontological (being), epistemological (thinking) and methodological (doing) dimensions of practice. The author contends that shifting from a modernist to holistic foundation can revitalise the capacity of social workers in industrialised nations to fulfil the UN Sustainable Development Goals and truly address ecological and social problems.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - 05 Jul 2018
EventJoint World Conference on Social Work, Education and Social Development 2018 - Royal Dublin Society, Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 04 Jul 201807 Jul 2018
https://www.ifsw.org/event/swsd-2018-social-work-education-and-social-development/

Conference

ConferenceJoint World Conference on Social Work, Education and Social Development 2018
Abbreviated titleEnvironmental and Community Sustainability: Human Solutions in Evolving Societies
Country/TerritoryIreland
CityDublin
Period04/07/1807/07/18
Internet address

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