Synopses & Reviews
Contrasting the prevailing theories of the evolution of agriculture, the author argues that the practice of smallholding is more efficient and less environmentally degrading than that of industrial agriculture which depends heavily on fossil fuel, chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides.
He presents a convincing case for his argument with examples taken from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, and demonstrates that there are fundamental commonalities among smallholder cultures.
"Smallholders, Householders" is a detailed and innovative analysis of the agricultural efficiency and conservation of resources practiced around the world by smallholders.
Synopsis
c agriculture can provide the food needed for the world's rapidly growing population.
Synopsis
This timely and convincing book challenges the myth that only modern, large-scale, mechanized, scienti¹c agriculture can provide the food needed for the world's rapidly growing population. Using dozens of ethnographic examples the author argues that smallholder farming, wherever it takes place, is a viable alternative to today's dominant ideal of industrial agriculture, with its dependence on fossil fuels, chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. The author predicts that wherever people are plentiful and land is scarce, the distinctive adaptation of the smallholder will persist and ¼ourish.
Synopsis
This timely and convincing book challenges the myth that only modern, large-scale, mechanized, scienti
Synopsis
“A magnificent work of scholarly synthesis. His book will long remain essential reading for all who claim an interest in debates about agrarian change.”—The Geographical Journal