This ePortfolio was influenced by some of the readings we did at the beginning of the semester, as well as my background in economics and interest in farming in general.
The Benefits of the Commons, especially, along with Smallholders, Householders, challenge the standard views on farming practices. Arturo Escobar is also influential as he articulates thoughts I have had over the shortcomings of standard economic approaches to agriculture and development. James Ferguson is important in challenging the idea that development can be separated from politics. As well I appreciate Kay Milton’s for increased anthropological involvement in environmental issues speaks to the importance of anthropological input in agriculture discussion.
My goal is to look at agricultural policy and its consequences. Industrialization of agriculture is touted as necessary for increasing economic growth and crop yields. Higher yields brought by technological advances are better able to feed populations, frees up labor that can then be used in other industries, and supposedly decreases the amount of land that needs to be used.
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This is unfortunately not the reality. Higher yields are often only seen in the short run. Some farmers have certainly benefited but typically those who were better off to being with. Decades after the Green Revolution poverty has not been conquered, as was the hope. Industrialization policies exacerbate already existing inequalities, leaving others worse off and more susceptible to hunger. Farmers are made reliant on global market forces outside of their control.
Environmentally, industrialized agriculture can be devastating. Runoff from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, increased water use, erosion, soil degradation, are all problems communities face from industrialized farming.
Yet it is still promoted as the only way to feed the world’s population. My aim here is to look at the effects Westernized agricultural reforms have had on communities and their environments, as well as alternatives to the conventional model.