Dilemmas of international social work: paradoxical processes in indigenisation, universalism and imperialism

摘要: This paper explores current paradoxical processes in international social work concerning the global diffusion of profession’s principles, values and practice methods or approaches. Some criticise these activities on grounds that they are imperialistic. Others advocate strongly for indigenisation work. Yet others believe work’s universality. attempts to stimulate debate on, promote greater understanding of, mutual respect for, divergent views critical questions. It puts forward notion culture is an important consideration enables indigenisation, retains universals yet avoids imperialism. International horns a three-pronged dilemma. The dilemma arises from directions contradictory surrounding universalism imperialism Crosscultural dialogue exchange moulding shaping new forms (indigenisation) while is, at same time, trying hold onto some form common identity (universalism). taking place time as efforts toward internationalising raise spectre westernisation Put another way, raises challenges universalisation compounded by which can quickly become imperialistic depending what proposed ‘universal’ In this paper, it suggested play role enabling retaining avoiding dilemmas raised Tsang Yan (2001) relation development China provide example way