Farmer rationality and the adoption of environmentally sound practices; A critique of the assumptions of traditional agricultural extension

摘要: Abstract Traditional extension has been a top down process: scientists developed products and methods which, following promulgation by agencies, farmers were expected to adopt. Extension agents considered who failed adopt new techniques be recalcitrant irrational. Farmers' attitudes their lack of knowledge the main barriers adoption. Little consideration was given farmers' points view. The idea that resistance or reluctance change might have some logical basis never considered. Recent analysis reveals most ‘barriers’ rational can categorised as: conflicting information; risk; implementation costs capital outlay; intellectual loss flexibility; complexity; incompatibility with other aspects farm management personal objectives. Social perceptional issues also affect This paper examines conceptual concerns about efficacy traditional practices ...