Description

e-Book “Agricultural Involution: The Processes of Ecological Change in Indonesia” karya Clifford Geertz

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Sinopsis:

“Agricultural Involution: The Processes of Ecological Change in Indonesia” by Clifford Geertz is a seminal work that explores the complex and adaptive agricultural practices in Indonesia, particularly focusing on the island of Java. Geertz examines the concept of “agricultural involution,” a process where agricultural systems become increasingly intricate and labor-intensive without corresponding increases in productivity. He contrasts the wet-rice (sawah) agriculture of Java with the swidden (slash-and-burn) agriculture of the Outer Islands, illustrating how historical, ecological, and social factors have shaped these distinct agricultural systems.

Geertz’s analysis highlights the resilience and adaptability of Javanese farmers in response to population pressures and economic changes. He argues that the intricate labor practices and social organization in wet-rice cultivation have allowed Javanese society to sustain itself despite limited land and resources. This involutionary process, however, comes with trade-offs, such as stagnation in productivity and persistent rural poverty. “Agricultural Involution” provides a deep understanding of the interplay between culture, ecology, and economy in shaping agricultural practices, making it an essential read for scholars of anthropology, agriculture, and Southeast Asian studies.