ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the contradictory relationships of both social work and right-wing nationalist populism to Enlightenment Modernity. Each embraces some elements of modernity but retreats from others. This analysis suggests that apparent commonalities – rejection of globalisation, empowerment rhetoric and opposition to neo-liberalism – are more apparent than real. On this basis, it is argued that attempts by social work either to dialogue with or to accommodate the right-wing nationalist populist agenda are both futile and dangerous. It is important for social work to take a strong stand against neo-liberalism, and also to also to articulate significant alternatives to the right-wing nationalist populist dystopia. This requires a re-examination of social work’s commitment to social justice and human rights, an appreciation of the changing role of the state, the development of a nuanced universalism as an alternative narrative to right-wing nationalist populism, the articulation and practice of non-violence, appeals to the emotions as well as to rationality, and a readiness for strong political action.
