Subsistence production,autonomy and development |
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| Authors: | Lawrence S Grossman |
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| Institution: | Department of Geography , Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , Blacksburg , Virginia 24061 , USA |
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| Abstract: | An analysis of economic and social changes in a village in the highlands of Papua New Guinea from 1976 to 1981 illustrates the impact of economic boom and bust cycles on peasant production patterns, the relationship and potential conflict between subsistence and commodity production can be understood only in light of fluctuations in the degree of rural commercial involvement over time. The impact of the commercial economy on the diet is complex, having both positive and negative aspects linked to boom and bust cycles. The nature of peasant response to boom and bust cycles is influenced by the degree of local autonomy. Maintaining local autonomy and a viable subsistence system provides a crucial buffer insulating peasants from economic downturns. |
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