Working Across Difference: Heterogeneous Framing Processes and Collective Action Strategies in the Practice of Agroecology

• In Event: Collective Behavior and Social Movements Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 11: Framing for the 21st Century

Abstract

Agroecology—a set of food production and consumption practices based on ecological, social,
and economic sustainability principles—has grown significantly in Argentina as a response to
socio-environmental and health concerns associated with the dominant agribusiness model.
Advancing agroecology through grassroots peer-to-peer channels is a common strategy among
farmers who pursue socio-environmental goals. In many case studies across Latin America and
beyond, such grassroots articulations have resulted in robust social movements that fight for food,
land, and health justice. However, sometimes, internal differences interrupt a group’s ability and
desire to operate a social movement. This raises the central question of this study: how do farmers
develop relational strategies to advance their agroecology endeavors in cases of significant
framing and identity differences? Based on 18 months of ethnographic observations and in-depth,
semi-structured interviews with farmers in one agroecology group in an agricultural town in
Córdoba, Argentina, this study examines how individuals navigate diagnostic, prognostic, and
motivational framing differences that limit consensus around a collective identity. The study finds
that although the group was not structured as a social movement, some collective action strategies
were still adopted—namely network densification, resource mobilization, and seeking and seizing
opportunities through the state. The study draws from literature on social movements, collective
action, and agroecology studies, and offers an analysis of collective action strategies beyond the
boundaries of social movements.

Author

• Águeda Ortega, University of Texas-Austin