Economic rationalism or social justice: A challenge for social workers

Abstract

The economic rationalist inspired marketisation of human services in Australia has increasingly compromised the professional values of social work by focusing social work roles and functions on policing social deviancy, rather than alleviating social distress, as the profession seeks to protect itself in an era of declining welfare resources. Yet the logic of economic rationalism suggests all social spending is likely to continue to decline over time and social work may need to refocus on fighting for social justice if the profession is to avoid becoming marginalised. This article calls for social workers to mobilise both physically and intellectually with like minded groups and individuals to develop and implement policies and language which are oppositional to economic rationalism and which assist those most vulnerable in the community.