I have worked as a social worker for the past 13 years. As I become increasingly interested in Libertarian philosophy I was wondering if anyone knows of social worker/philosophers throughout history who truly had libertarian leanings in their world view and approach to their work. Thanks for any assistance.
I think you’re the first.
Seriously, most people I’ve known in professions like yours believe in a big, soft, warm, fuzzy government that will take care of us all.
Are you a private LCSW or a welfare case worker?
So no recommendations?
: )
You are correct…
99 percent of my colleagues side with the democratic party.
One of my colleagues believed that libertarianism = fascism…when in reality it is quite the opposite.
I work for a private social service agency.
I am officially an LCPC Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor).
What about the Red Cross? That’s a pretty big private institution and certainly in line of libertarianism. Social workers who give handouts for people may think they’re doing the “right” thing, but capitalists have done more to help get the poor out of poverty than government dole could ever dream.
Even a lot of private charities are more focused on changing the circumstances than changing the person. If circumstances are the focus, then the charity just subsidizes poor lifestyle choices. The charity case will use the service to free up income for booze and crack.
Actually, with all due respect, the reasons behind drug use/dependence are much more complicated than what is suggested by that last statement. Providing housing for individuals who happen to be dependent on any kind of drug does not necessarily produce an “enabling” effect.
I have had countless clients who will use drugs no matter what housing situation you place them in. People use drugs in our society for complex reasons. Many people are survivors of horrific trauma - and have learn to cope with emotional and physical pain by medicating themselves with substances (Actually, to a certain extent we all use mood and mind altering substances to medicate pain in our lives).
As I have mentioned in previous posts, I work with individuals who have severe psychiatric (such as psychotic disorders) and substance dependence issues. Many of them have survived on the streets for years. Many of them actually do not get any benefits from the government. They come to our agency because they need clinical help. These are generally not individuals who can simply “just say no” to drugs and then take on full time work. They have had serious mental health issues for much of their lives. They are certainly not helpless. They have survived on the street (Yes, that is an accomplishment) for long periods of time.
I am all for the government disolving. But private charities and the good will of non coerced helpers will always be a necessary part of society.
But… I agree with you that changing the circumstances is not nearly enough! That is true. We need to strive to not “fix” client problems..but empower THEM to solve and overcome their obstacles..