Social and ecosystem resistances: Agro-ecological trajectories in horticulture in Mendoza, Argentina

Abstract

In this paper we propose to describe the agro-cultural knowledge applied by the peasant horticulturists from the northern and central oases of Mendoza and to analyze the processes of agro-ecological rupture. Qualitative techniques were used to give an account of the senses that the horticulturists give to their work and to the environment they feel, perceive and modify. The dominant knowledge is imposed through an apparent lack of alternatives, while the agroecological ruptures propose an alternative through a synthesis of concrete and abstract knowledge. Organization and collective action promote and consolidate agroecology that favors the deployment of a resource base that synergizes human work and living land.