The Persistence of the Family Farm and the Economy of Affection: The Cameroonian Case

Abstract

This case study attempts to account for the persistence of the economy of affection in Cameroon in light of the persistence of the family farm debate. The study demonstrates, like previous studies, that the economy of affection persists because of subjective values such as the farmers' desire to be independent; the farmers' view of agriculture as a way of life; and farmers' purpose and satisfaction in life derived from bonds and relations formed in the production process. In addition, the study clearly documents the importance of: 1) a sacred component to agriculture; 2) agricultural rituals which provide for social bonding and co operation; and 3) a process of self-definition, self-determination, and self -actualization associated with food production.



Journal of Social Development in Africa Vol 15 No 1 2000, pp. 93-108