Mining for justice in the food system: Perceptions, practices, and possibilities

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

167 Scopus citations

Abstract

Despite much popular interest in food issues, there remains a lack of social justice in the American agrifood system, as evidenced by prevalent hunger and obesity in low-income populations and exploitation of farmworkers. While many consumers and alternative agrifood organizations express interest in and support social justice goals, the incorporation of these goals into on-the-ground alternatives is often tenuous. Academics have an important role in calling out social justice issues and developing the critical thinking skills that can redress inequality in the agrifood system. Academics can challenge ideological categories of inquiry and problem definition, include justice factors in defining research problems, and develop participatory, problem-solving research within social justice movements. In addition, scholars can educate students about the power of epistemologies, discourse, and ideology, thereby expanding the limits and boundaries of what is possible in transforming the agrifood system. In these ways, the academy can be a key player in the creation of a diverse agrifood movement that embraces the discourse of social justice.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)157-161
Number of pages5
JournalAgriculture and Human Values
Volume25
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Alternative agrifood institutions
  • Consumers
  • Farm workers
  • Food systems
  • Local food
  • Organic
  • Public health
  • Public sociology
  • Social justice
  • Sustainable agriculture

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Agronomy and Crop Science

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