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Assessing the role of the research in the transition to organic farming by using the Actor Network Theory: lessons from two case studies in France and Bulgaria

Quiédeville, Sylvain; Slavova, Petya; Touzard, Jean-Marc and Barjolle, Dominique (2018) Assessing the role of the research in the transition to organic farming by using the Actor Network Theory: lessons from two case studies in France and Bulgaria. In: Proceedings of the 13th European IFSA Symposium, Theme 1 – Learning and knowledge systems, education, extension and advisory services. 1-5 July 2018, Chania, Greece.

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Summary

This paper explores the potential of Actor Network Theory (ANT) in understanding how the process of interaction and translation between human and non-human actors contribute to the development, adoption and diffusion of science-based innovations linked to the transition to organic farming. The study relies on two case studies, the French Camargue case covering a range of technical and social innovations, and the case from Bulgaria focusing on the development of a technical and product innovation, i.e. a veterinary product for organic beekeeping. The paper shows the limitations of classical approaches in studying innovations since they underestimate the role of heterogeneous actors, their status, and how they interact with each other. We argue that focusing on actors’ interactions helps to better understand the so-called “uncertainties” and “turning points” in the innovation development, as well as to interpret them as natural elements. Moreover we argue that challenges to tackle should be problematized to increase the success of research programs. We also stress the importance of opinion leaders during the implementation and diffusion phase of the innovation.


EPrint Type:Conference paper, poster, etc.
Type of presentation:Paper
Keywords:Actor-Network-Theory, evaluation, science-based research, innovation process, Department of Socio-Economic Sciences, Innovation in Agriculture
Agrovoc keywords:
Language
Value
URI
English
evaluation
http://aims.fao.org/aos/agrovoc/c_2736
Subjects: Farming Systems
Environmental aspects
Knowledge management
Research affiliation: Bulgaria > Other institutions
Switzerland > ETHZ - Agrarwissenschaften
Switzerland > FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture Switzerland > Society > Rural sociology
France > INRA - Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique
Deposited By: Quiédeville, Dr. Sylvain
ID Code:33685
Deposited On:28 Sep 2018 10:13
Last Modified:16 Mar 2022 13:51
Document Language:English
Status:Published
Refereed:Peer-reviewed and accepted

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