Speaking Truth to Power

Abstract

Jane Addams is known for founding Hull-House and for her leadership in the emerging social work profession. But little scholarly attention has centered on the values that influenced her emergence as an internationally known social activist and pacifist. The findings include a congruity with Quaker beliefs and early social work values but no attempt to identify herself as a member of either group. Despite intense opposition, Addams led the early 20th-century women's peace movement, unwavering in her belief that women's nurturing experiences led them to value life deeply and that women's involvement in world political affairs would bring about a more humane and peaceful society.