Abstract
The dualist thesis of structural change in advanced capitalist agriculture, postulating the disappearance of the middle-range family farm, is examined. In the case of the U.K., aggregate statistical evidence in support of this tendency is not forthcoming whereas in the United States recent research has downplayed the trend. It is suggested that the thesis is too structuralist, paying inadequate attention to the range of responses to be found among farming households and generally directing attention to patterns rather than processes of adjustment. In order to analyse the latter, a series of detailed farm interviews, providing social and economic profiles of farm business change between 1970 and 1985, was conducted in three contrasting agricultural areas of southern England. The survey data revealed important local differences set within broadly similar trends though with a high level of unpredictability regarding individual household strategies. Areas requiring further detailed analysis are outlined.
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