AGRARIAN SOCIETY Meaning and
Definition
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An agrarian society is a type of social organization where the majority of its members engage in agricultural activities as their primary means of subsistence. In such a society, the cultivation of crops and the rearing of livestock form the basis of the economy and contribute significantly to its overall well-being. The term "agrarian" is derived from the Latin word "ager," meaning "field" or "land," reflecting the strong reliance on land resources in this type of society.
In an agrarian society, farming and related practices are central to the daily life, customs, and values of its members. The land is a pivotal resource, and individuals or families typically own or work on small plots for their livelihoods. Agriculture is often conducted using traditional methods, such as manual labor and basic tools, although some societies may employ limited mechanical or technological advancements. Crop cultivation may range from staple grains like rice or wheat to cash crops such as cotton or coffee, depending on the geographical and climatic conditions.
Agrarian societies are generally characterized by close-knit communities where individuals have interdependent roles within the agricultural cycle. Social dynamics tend to revolve around mutual support, cooperation, and kinship ties, as farming activities require collective efforts during planting, harvesting, and storage. The economic system is typically based on subsistence farming, where surplus production is limited, and trade may occur within local or regional networks. This dependency on agriculture as the primary economic activity often results in a slower pace of technological, industrial, and urban development compared to more advanced societies.
Etymology of AGRARIAN SOCIETY
The word "agrarian" is derived from the Latin word "ager", meaning "field" or "land". It is related to the Latin verb "agere", which means "to do" or "to cultivate". The term "agrarian society" refers to a society that relies primarily on agriculture as its main economic activity.
