Improving the methodological approach to farming systems research

Abstract

Applications of Farming Systems Research (FSR) as well as the literature on the subject have grown extensively over the past decade. However, too little emphasis has been placed on classifying methodological issues leading to confusion in the organisation and administration of FSR programmes and projects. This has limited the practical usefulness of FSR. This paper examines closely three major methodological issues concerning FSR—the extent of knowledge of farmers of their circumstances, the optimality of traditional farming systems and farmer testing of improved technology. After the resolution of logical dilemmas associated with these issues (and based on the resolutions), the paper presents an approach to the conduct of FSR which should increase its efficiency in improving the economic conditions of small farmers world-wide.