Presubsistence is a term that refers to the period preceding the maintenance or provision of livelihood or basic necessities. It is commonly used in the context of economic or social development, especially when discussing the conditions or stages prior to achieving self-sufficiency or sustainable living.
In a broader sense, presubsistence can also describe the state or phase in which individuals or communities rely heavily on external assistance or resources to fulfill their fundamental needs. This could include access to food, water, shelter, healthcare, and education, among others. Presubsistence is often associated with underdeveloped or disadvantaged regions where poverty, limited infrastructure, or lack of access to resources prevent population groups from reaching a self-sustaining level.
Furthermore, presubsistence can be linked to discussions on economic development, focusing on the initial stages leading up to the establishment of viable industries or agricultural practices. It involves the transition phase where communities move from subsistence farming or basic trade to more advanced economic activities, possibly including commercial production, job diversification, or skill development.
Overall, presubsistence reflects a critical stage in the process of development and progression towards self-reliance, signaling the fundamental need for external support or interventions to address poverty, inequalities, and gaps in essential services.
