The purpose of this study is to revisit the notion of alienation, which is a key concept of Marx`s work as well as other critical social traditions, in relation to youth education and welfare by reviewing the key literature and identifying major conce...
The purpose of this study is to revisit the notion of alienation, which is a key concept of Marx`s work as well as other critical social traditions, in relation to youth education and welfare by reviewing the key literature and identifying major conceptual issues. The study specifically discusses the classic notion of alienation centered in the Marxist tradition, the sociological development of the concept, alienation as a critical concept, and potential issues when the concept is applied to youth studies. Subsequently, it illuminates the theoretical implications of alienation for youth education and welfare by means of elaborating how the notion have generally been adopted in the existing body of education and social welfare research. This conceptual discussion calls attention of youth researchers to critical perspectives of the theory of alienation, which can ultimately contribute to the progressive approach to youth development practice and research.