Open AccessA Wholistic Paradigm for Sustainability
Author(s) -
Craig R. Mosher
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
critical social work
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1543-9372
DOI - 10.22329/csw.v11i3.5835
Subject(s) - reductionism , general partnership , empowerment , sustainability , systems thinking , sociology , paradigm shift , engineering ethics , management science , epistemology , knowledge management , psychology , political science , computer science , economics , economic growth , engineering , ecology , philosophy , artificial intelligence , law , biology
A new way of thinking is emerging that may help solve some of the serious environmental, economic, and social problems that must be engaged to create a sustainable world. The scientific, reductionist, individualist modern paradigm, with social workers in the expert role, has led to many benefits and costs in today’s world. The emerging wholistic paradigm is based on interdependence, partnership, cooperation, and respect for the earth and all beings. Social workers in the role of partners are using approaches like systems theory, client strengths, partnership, and empowerment that reflect the wholistic paradigm. These wholistic social workers may also make use of other theories and methods such as chaos theory, fractal geometry, intuitive thinking, and practice wisdom to fulfill the profession’s responsibility to help create a sustainable world.