Review the Saul Alinsky, Community Organizing and Rules for Radicals (Links to an external site.) article, research the roots of this method, and then discuss its application of “the ends justify the means” in today’s economy. 

The application of the saul alinsky approach | HHS 435 Contemporary Issues, Trends, Health Law Ethics in Health & Human Services | Ashford University

The Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) is a community organizing network founded by Saul Alinsky, an American activist and writer, in 1940. The IAF is known for its grassroots organizing strategies and has been a significant influence on community organizing since its inception. In this paper, we will discuss the roots of the Alinsky method, its application of “the ends justify the means” in today’s economy, and its relevance in contemporary community organizing.

The Alinsky method is rooted in the idea of empowering the poor and marginalized to achieve their goals through collective action. The method emphasizes the importance of building relationships between community members, identifying issues of common concern, and working together to effect change. Alinsky believed that the key to successful community organizing was to understand the power dynamics at play in a given community and to use that knowledge to leverage change.

One of the most controversial aspects of the Alinsky method is the application of “the ends justify the means.” This concept suggests that any means necessary can be used to achieve a desired end goal. This can include tactics such as lying, deception, or even violence. While Alinsky did not condone the use of violence, he did believe in using any means necessary to achieve change.

In today’s economy, the application of “the ends justify the means” is still relevant, but it must be applied with caution. The use of unethical tactics can damage the credibility of a community organization and undermine its goals. However, there are times when tactics such as civil disobedience or protest are necessary to bring attention to an issue or to effect change.

For example, the Black Lives Matter movement has used civil disobedience and protest to draw attention to issues of police brutality and systemic racism in the United States. While some may view these tactics as extreme, they have been effective in raising awareness and bringing about change. The movement has forced police departments to adopt new policies and procedures and has brought about changes in public opinion regarding police brutality.

In conclusion, the Alinsky method has been a significant influence on community organizing since its inception. While the application of “the ends justify the means” is still relevant, it must be applied with caution in today’s economy. Unethical tactics can damage the credibility of a community organization and undermine its goals. However, there are times when tactics such as civil disobedience or protest are necessary to effect change. The key to successful community organizing is to understand the power dynamics at play in a given community and to use that knowledge to leverage change.