Recognition and the Other in Social Work

Abstract Axel Honneth’s recognition theory is a useful ethical framework for social work. Stephen Webb connects it straightforwardly with the relativistic ethical tradition that arguably emphasises the role of differences too much. However, this article shows that an alternative objectivist reading of recognition theory evades Webb’s critique and describes a balanced attitude towards otherness, fitting the practical field of social work. A detailed picture of recognition theory also reveals how it can be utilised in macro-level social critique. Contrary to what Webb claims, it is important that social workers generally respect differences in their work. Unfortunately, every attempt to understand a client inevitably also involves the risk of misunderstanding that might harm the client. This cannot be avoided because helping typically requires understanding. Fortunately, recognitive attitudes and work practices help to minimise risks of that kind. Finally, we have to acknowledge that there are differences that we cannot tolerate, like physical violence against children in the form of physical discipline.