The human factor underlying the agricultural economy. Family and population in the study of farms and the agricultural sector: training guide
Marcoux, A.
Les bases humaines de l' economie agricole Famille et population dans l' etude de l' exploitation et du secteur agricole guide pour la formation: 59
1982
Document Number: 392516
This guide sets out to help those working in agricultural economics training to improve their understanding of the role of people within agricultural production systems by emphasizing the human aspects of the sector and by comparing demographic and economic indicators. It also aims to assist them by examining the relations between the farming family and how the farm operates as well as the influence of population migration upon the operation and equilibrium of the sector. The paper is supported by statistics from 32 developing countries, mainly in Francophone Africa. The calculation and components of models of population development are described first (gross and net population increase) then relations between household and farm are described: household structure and work, consumption and saving, the role of migration and the significance of land quality and land scarcity. The third chapter deals with demographic aspects of the agricultural sector (population and markets; needs and demands); population and the labour force; the characteristics of the rural labour force; population and physical factors of production (land use). A table is presented to summarize important topics in each of the areas discussed, with an indication of how these topics may be imparted to students. Five annexes present statistical data for the 32 countries, as well as outlining basic demographic calculations on population growth and household structure.