Architectures of knowledge: Grounding social work theory within philosophy of science

Summary This article reflects on the relevance and necessity of a scientific foundation and reflection of social work. Beginning with introductory considerations on the relevance of theories and the need for their scientific reflection, the special role of the philosophy of science and the basic science positions are presented. Against this background, further conclusions are drawn about the knowledge architectures of social work and special considerations are given on the question of comparability and systematization of theories. The key role of the epistemological goals of theories is introduced and used as a central criterion for comparing theories. The article concludes with a summary and an outlook. Findings In recent decades, several theoretical models of social work have been developed and discussed. They have helped to organize and to reflect on social work as a profession and a discipline. At the same time, the theoretical approaches often remain separate and are rarely compared systematically. One of the main reasons for this situation are the different theoretical references that make direct comparison difficult and sometimes impossible. In order to overcome this situation, this article develops criteria for a comparative classification of social work theories and their systematization according to the model of basic scientific positions and their epistemological goals derived from the philosophy of science. Application This article helps to reflect on role of theories for social work and to compare, select, and assess theories; it illuminates the theory–practice relationship; and it contributes to the further development of the science of social work.