Perspectives on socio-economic causes of and responses to food deprivation

Abstract

Compares the theoretical paradigms of adaptation and political economy. The adaptive or coping paradigm is discussed first to demonstrate the interactive effects of social, economic, political, and ideological strategies (response domains) as food deprivation intensifies. This adaptive perspective is countered by a discussion of the determinants of food deprivation, emphasizing political-economic relationships that diminish the effectiveness of these strategies. Then considers two sets of responses and combines them in a review of serial reactions to progressive food deprivation. This is a process whereby a series of short-term solutions can ultimately compromise the ability to recover, leaving individuals more vulnerable to subsequent challenges. -from Authors