This paper outlines the principles and roles of farming systems research (FSR). It suggests that as sustainability becomes a concern, FSR must progress beyond a systems perspective with a predetermined crop focus to a farmer problem focus. Long-term objectives can be addressed through a natural resource systems focus and a livelihood focus. In all cases, FSR should be multidisciplinary. Realising the potential of FSR requires seeing beyond romantic notions about farmers and traditional farmers. Hindrances discussed include the notions that farmers know everything, that traditional farming systems are more sustainable and that the answer lies in any single level of analysis. Wider limitations of FSR include inability to address global sustainability problems, dependence on widespread adoption for large impact.
Publication year:
1993
Pages:
2p.