Abstract
Recent empirical research has demonstrated that hog confinement operations in the Upper Midwest of the United States are causing grave damage to ecosystems and human well-being. In this paper, we detail some of this damage and then argue that the economic, political, and cultural realities of the Upper Midwest are grossly limiting the possibility of changes that favor sustainable agricultural practices. Reversing the damage associated with hog confinements is then an enormous task that requires change from within multiple systems. The time frame for change is closing given the amount of ecological damage. Additionally, existing political, economic, and cultural realities stand systematically opposed to the need for change. Hence, the first step is to articulate the issues in such a way that reveals their urgency. In the final part of our paper we articulate this urgency and consider possible innovations to the agricultural system based on comparisons to European beef production. The innovations under consideration ultimately involve radical change in the interlocking systems that resist change.
Presenters
John PauleyProfessor, Philosophy, Simpson College, Iowa, United States Clint Meyer
Professor , Biology & Environmental Science, Simpson College, Iowa, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Agriculture, Animal confinements, Sustainable solutions, Ecological Damage, Interlocking Systems
