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Research article2003Peer reviewed

The cultural background of the sustainability of the traditional farming system in the Ghouta, the oasis of Damascus, Syria

Alhamidi SK, Gustafsson M, Larsson H, Hillbur P

Abstract

This paper discusses them practical impact of a non-materialistic culture on sustainable farm management. Two elements are discussed: first, how deeply rooted religion is in this culture; second, the feasibility of using both human knowledge and experience, so-called tradition and divine guidance in management. Finally, the implications of the fusion of these two elements are drawn. The outcome is the capability of man to integrate ethical values into decisions and actions. This integration, when applied by skilled farmers, leads to a management of natural resources in an altruistic fashion and not merely to economic ends. Moreover, it makes agriculture meaningful and sustainable

Published in

Agriculture and Human Values
2003, Volume: 20, number: 3, pages: 231-240 Publisher: KLUWER ACADEMIC PUBL

      SLU Authors

    • Alhamidi, Sameer

      • Department of Crop Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
      • Larsson, Hans

        • Department of Crop Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
        • Gustafsson, Mats

          • Department of Crop Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

        UKÄ Subject classification

        Landscape Architecture
        Food Science
        Agricultural Science

        Publication identifier

        DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1026123929170

        Permanent link to this page (URI)

        https://res.slu.se/id/publ/2369