The Ethical Foundations of Social Work

“In an era where social work is increasingly governed by standardised protocols, the academic study of ethics and philosophy may seem both daunting and an unnecessary luxury. However, few tasks are more complex than promoting the well-being, dignity and autonomy of vulnerable and increasingly diverse service users. One of the greatest strengths of The Ethical Foundations of Social Work (Revised Edition) is its ability to challenge the myth that care, protection and promoting autonomy and dignity are simply "common sense" tasks and that social work is purely a practical profession.
This book not only provides a clear introduction to ethical principles and reasoning but also encourages readers to engage with the real-world ethical dilemmas that social workers face in ever-changing social and cultural contexts. By situating social work within broader historical and geopolitical landscapes, Pullen Sansfaçon and Cowden offer a vital resource that fosters critical thinking, ethical reflexivity and political awareness - an essential resource for both students and practitioners.’’

Dr Gurnam Singh, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Warwick and Visiting Professor of Social Work, Liverpool Hope University, UK.

“The Ethical Foundations of Social Work is an essential text, inviting reflexivity and reflection on one's own positionality. This book is a must for social work students, professors, and practitioners, as its pedagogically approached theoretical content invites critical reflection on contemporary socio-political issues. The chapters on epistemic injustice, radicalisation, decolonial ethics and the ethics of recognition are valuable additions to this edition because of their topicality and relevance.”

Hélène Albert, Professor of Social Work, The Université de Moncton, Canada

“Since the first edition of this text the world has radically changed, this updated edition is vitally needed spotlighting ethical thinking and challenges faced globally including social injustice, oppression, conflict, climate change and far right radicalisation. This accessible book, based on the authors own research and teaching expertise, advances insight into ethical perspectives and social theories. It is essential reading for students and practitioners, with opportunities to apply learning from the book to complex case studies aiding a depth of learning which will aid social work practice. The text will support students and social workers from across the world to intervene in complex situations developing and actively utilising ethical and critical thinking skills. It is a crucial time for social work to continue to ask the question ‘is this ethical’ promoting social justice, ethical practice and criticality in complex situations, this text is an must read.”

Davy Hambling, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, University of Gloucestershire, UK.

“The new edition of Pullen Sansfaçon and Cowden is a must for teaching ethics in every social work program. The authors have successfully renewed and significantly enhanced their work, by integrating contemporary critical ethical theories, particularly the notions of epistemic justice, radicalization, and decolonial ethics. The manuscript provides concrete interpretive lenses for social work students and echoes the fact that in a world undergoing upheavals, the ethical practice of social work enables resistance and change”

Marie-Joëlle Robichaud, Professor at the department of psychoeducation and social work, and Head of Social Work programs, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Canada