This paper examines the origin and impacts of agricultural modernization in relation to the social basis of agroecology as a science and social agrarian movement. The impact of capitalism in rural societies has provided a framework for social movements from the 19th century, a framework that is also applied here...

Nowadays, agroecology is clearly focused on bringing about sustainability to food, concentrates and fibers’ production. However, a bigger picture of major social, economic and social drivers that move food systems beyond the current unsustainable, industrial agriculture is also present. With its basis rooted into ecosystems, agroecological science has become a...

This paper examines the multiple phases of agroecology during its development, from its early emphasis in ecological processes within agroecosystems to its multidimensional approach to entire food systems. This special edition compares and contrasts different agroecological proposals while discussing the characteristics of a participatory, transdisciplinary and action oriented agroecology.

Cultivated biodiversity is a key element to preserve sustainable agroecosystems, and it has to be approached from both an ecological and social perspective. Both elements undergo a co-evolution to deliver a wide range of agricultural systems that are adapted to local conditions. However, technical, economic, social and political factors have...

This paper defines agroecology as the application of ecological concepts and principles to the design and management of food systems. It presents the main arguments in support of the agroecological approach’s validity, importance and appropriateness. The key epistemological and methodological concept presented is that of sustainability. To achieve sustainability, agroecology...

Agriculture, both at global and european levels, is in a crisis that originates from a complex set of social, economic and ecologic problems. In this context, agroecology positions itself as a scientific paradigm that can effectively improve agricultural sustainability. To achieve that, researchers need systematic methodologic tools to engage rural...