Introduction to Social Justice

Designed as a primer for interprofessional disciplines, Introduction to Social Justice introduces readers to fundamental concepts and issues surrounding social justice. Through a collection of contributed chapters, the book explores critical aspects of social justice, including theories, histories, values, and biases. It encourages students to contemplate how discrimination impacts people, families, and communities, providing them with relatable examples, case studies, and a global perspective.

Individual chapters help to define social justice, examine the impact of income and wealth disparities on individuals and communities, discuss the various levels of racism from social to internalized, and demonstrate how intersections such as gender and sexuality, disability, and age affect justice. Students learn about healthcare disparities, homelessness, food security, environmental justice, violence, immigration, child welfare, and veterans within the context of social justice. Critical thinking questions, What Can I Do? sections, and Check Your Knowledge segments deepen the learning experience and encourage active engagement.

Introduction to Social Justice is ideal for courses and programs in social work, health professions, and other disciplines that emphasize social justice.