Self-determined Participation – a new comprehensive approach of the foundation of Diaconal Studies

Abstract

The article presents self-determined participation as the main aim of diaconal practice. In a triadic manner, aims, norms and virtues are (in-)forming each and every practice, including diaconal practice(s). These also clarify aims and foundations of diaconal practice in an ethical way as practice of freedom and/in love. Besides analyzing aims, norms and virtues, the outlined approach takes a close look at the actors of diaconal practice: service users, professionals, leaders and the organizations. Together these actors enable diaconal practice as a participatory practice in all spheres of life. In critical interaction with concepts of society brought forward by e.g. Friedrich Schleiermacher, Niklas Luhmann and Eilert Herms, the article suggests that diaconal science also constitutes a diaconal practical theology, tasked not only to focus on the spiritual activities within diaconia, but also on core activities of diaconal practice such as caring, assistance and counselling.

Keywords

• self-determined participation
• diaconal practice
• diaconal norms
• diaconal virtues
• diaconal actors
• diaconal practical theology
• social spheres