Technological adoption in peasant systems

Abstract

Using a theoretical framework that considers technological change as a regular component of peasant behaviour, this paper analyses the main features of the adoption of technologies by resource-poor farmers. The process of technological adoption is complex due to there are at stake both productive issues, and an intricate web of social relations. Along this process the different social actors involved develop different activities, confront specific logics, and struggle for reaching the best possible position in the field where they develop their socio-economic activity. Therefore, the adoption of new technologies should not be analysed without putting them in the context of more inclusive socio-economic and historical processes.