The sociology of knowledge: Ideology, critical reflection and the consequences of capitalism to social work

In social work research, there is a tradition for cultivating critical reflection often inspired by Marxist, Foucauldian and Feminist analyses. While recognising this trajectory of thought, this chapter takes the path of the sociology of knowledge with the aim of exploring potentials for critical reflection in social work: Can social work research informed by the sociology of knowledge contribute to critical reflection in social work as well as efforts to promote solidarity, human liberation and social change? First, two major challenges of enabling critical reflection in social work and social work research across different contexts are identified. It is suggested that we perceive critical reflection as a powerful form of knowledge about potentials and barriers for social change. The socio-economic system of capitalism is introduced as a significant context and object for critical reflection in social work. Secondly, conceptual contributions from the sociology of knowledge are outlined. Exploring everyday experiences and critical reflections on ideology and utopia can be a source for understanding potentials and barriers for social change. Thirdly, this approach is exemplified by a case example of social work with families in Denmark as illustrative of potentials and barriers for critical reflection and social change in different contexts.