A pragmatic approach to alternative patterns of development starting with existing systems, determine which aspects are wrong with them, and then attempt to correct those imbalances is suggested. This would not only be a more acceptable approach to most people than a complete revolutionary change of direction, but it would also achieve results much faster than may otherwise be possible. In other words, the emphasis will be to maximize the positive aspects of the existing development processes, and to eliminate or significantly reduce the undesirable eleMents. Within this general overall philosophy, an attempt to suggest some criteria for alternative patterns of development for the agricultural sector will be given.
By Asit K. Biswas, 1979. Article published in IIASA Reports, Laxenburg, Austria, PP-79-006.