Human Dignity, Society, and Social Values: The Philosophical Foundations of Social Work

Abstract

This article examines the philosophical dimensions of social work through the interconnected lenses of the human person, society, and social values. Social work is evaluated not merely as a professional activity directed at solving social problems, but as a humanistic social institution that safeguards the well-being, dignity, and social integration of individuals. The study analyses the ontological and axiological foundations of social work, the characteristics of the human being as a social entity, the relationship between individuals and society, and the role of social work in preserving and developing social values. Particular attention is given to the principles of humanism, social responsibility, social justice, and solidarity as core orientations of social work practice. The article further discusses the transformation of social values under conditions of globalization and its influence on the content and direction of contemporary social work. The study concludes that social work constitutes a vital sphere of activity that sustains social equilibrium between the individual and society, advances the humanization of social relations, and contributes to the development of moral values across communities and generations.