ABSTRACT
In 1968, Monsignor Ivan Illich gave an impassioned speech titled To Hell with Good Intentions to the Conference on InterAmerican Student Projects. In his speech, he discussed “the deep dangers of paternalism inherent in any voluntary service activity” (para. 1). Although the speech was delivered over 50 years ago, the discussion remains relevant today. Study abroad programs have the potential to extend and promote an attitude of “white saviorism” (Nordmeyer, Bedera, & Teig, 2016, p. 78) if the focus is on student learning to the detriment of the local communities. Some programs, even those that are well intentioned, may “position the visiting students in a position of power over the local population” (p. 78). Developing ethical study abroad programs that foster student learning, but also help develop a sense of cultural humility while avoiding harm to communities, is essential for social work.
