Friedemann Affolderbach

Prof. Dr. phil. Friedemann Affolderbach is a Professor for Social Work Science with a focus on theories and methods of social work at the Faculty of Architecture and Social Sciences at HTWK Leipzig since October 2019. His academic work centers on democratic theory, social movements, and community work, with particular emphasis on political education, disability studies, and anti-racist approaches in social work practice.

Education

• PhD (Dr. phil.) from Goethe University Frankfurt am Main (2018) with dissertation on "Public Sphere from Below? – Democracy, Public Sphere, and Political Education – Possibilities and Limits of Self-Organization of Social Movements"
• Master's in Social Work from Protestant University of Applied Sciences for Social Work Dresden (2008-2011)
• Diploma in Social Work from Protestant University of Applied Sciences for Social Work Dresden (1991-1995)

Research Interests

Prof. Affolderbach's research spans several interconnected fields within social work and social sciences. His primary focus is on democratic theory and social movements, examining how grassroots initiatives and community organizations contribute to democratic processes. He has extensively studied community work approaches and their relationship to social movements, particularly in the context of anti-racist initiatives.

A significant portion of his work addresses disability education and disability studies, exploring inclusive practices and the integration of people with disabilities into society. His research also critically engages with racism and right-wing extremism, developing theoretical frameworks for political youth work that confronts these issues. His publications demonstrate a consistent commitment to connecting theoretical perspectives with practical social work interventions.

Publications Overview

Prof. Affolderbach's scholarly output reveals a strong thematic coherence centered on democracy, social movements, and critical social work practice. His publications span from theoretical explorations of democratic theory to practical applications in youth work and disability education. A notable trend is his focus on counter-publics and how marginalized groups create alternative spaces for democratic participation. His work consistently bridges theoretical frameworks with practical social work applications, particularly in community settings and educational contexts.

Professional Recognition

• Vertrauensdozent (Trusted Lecturer) for Evangelisches Studienwerk Villigst
• Vertrauensdozent (Trusted Lecturer) for Rosa Luxemburg Foundation
• Member of the editorial board of the academic journal "Widersprüche"
• Member of the Society for Social Work (DGSA)
• Member of Landesfilmdienst Sachsen e.V.

Professional Experience

Before his current position, Prof. Affolderbach served as Acting Professor for "Socio-spatial foundations of social work" at RheinMain University of Applied Sciences (2017-2019). His professional background includes significant practical experience in social work settings, having worked as Director of the Evangelical Centre for Rural Areas (2011-2012), as a member of the mobile advisory team for the Leipzig administrative district (2001-2010), and as a social worker at Evangelical Youth Leipzig (1996-2001). This blend of academic and practical experience informs his approach to social work education and research.