Discovering The Connection Between Social Work And Politics

By Douglas Walker


When it comes to the fields of political science and sociology, the two are vastly different. While this is the case, individuals working on electoral campaigns, or running for office often do see a connection. For, those whom lead or will be leading others often need to have a background in social work and politics.

By working in both fields individuals often find it easier to promote public policies while reflecting a commitment to social justice. For, those whom are committed to both areas could very well be the leaders of the future. For, recent research in the area has prepared students and workers to campaign and run for a number of offices. While this is the case, when it comes to social work, political interests need be put aside when it comes to working with clients.

Students and others running for office, whether at the local, state or federal level often have extremely different platforms. In some cases, the platforms are in line with a political party. In others, a candidate may have a platform which is more non-partisan than associated with a specific party.

In most areas, training for an elected position is generally provided by the election board or other local organization. Individuals participating in such training are often also a part of a study. In most cases, a study group determines how many people move forward with political aspirations versus those whom withdraw from a campaign bid following the class.

Once these individuals start working, many can be found working on campaigns, running for office or working as speech writers. At which time, many begin to engage with elected officials in order to gain as much information as possible about upcoming elections and candidates. Whereas, these practices also provide for working experience if an individual still has political aspirations.

Students majoring in sociology may also want to consider taking some classes associated with political science. For, a number of studies have shown that those who have experience in both areas often make the best politicians. For, those whom can promote social justice concerns while also pursuing a political career are often the most successful with regards to both endeavors.

Whether approaching the political area as a candidate, campaign staff or volunteer, studies have shown that those whom return often have a lot to offer. For, while sociologists rarely work in politics, there are politicians whom work with issues related to social justice on an ongoing basis. As such, those whom can focus on both areas often make some of the politicians.

One study in this area explored the existing interest in intensive social and political work. In this case, the study specifically targeted individuals working in either area. Whereas, a different study worked with students pursuing degrees in sociology and political science. Ultimately, researchers found that both studies showed that those majoring in sociology often became more interested in politics than others.




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