ABSTRACT
In the previous chapter the implication of religion and spirituality for thinking about professional ethics and values was examined. In particular, the discussion looked at the way in which diverse beliefs and positions may create challenges for social work and human services practice and considered some ways of thinking about whether the accommodation of differences is possible. This chapter pursues the question of differences further, broadening the discussion to examine ways in which the relationship between wider social and political structures and the ethics and values of these professions is impacted by cultural diversity. It considers the relationship of social work and human services to particular political values and explores ways in which the idea of multiculturalism can inform thinking about culture, values and ethics in this field. Arguments for anti-racist practice and also for culturally specific services have become increasingly important for social work and human services, and these ideas are also discussed in depth. This discussion also draws on the notion of anti-oppressive practice.
