orb@whuxl.UUCP (SEVENER) (02/25/85)
> By now it should be obvious that > capitalist farmers tend to outproduce their non-capitalist counterparts--quite > a few countries, including ones behind the iron curtain, are allowing their > farmers to make a profit on some of their land because it spurs production, > but not all countries do this, because governments and their consequences are > rarely examined objectively. > > --Cliff It should be obvious that the American system combining many farmers with government technical assistance and price supports has been the most productive in the world. The Agricultural Adjustment Act was passed in 1933 to provide stability to the agricultural market which tends to suffer from the "cobweb effect" in which prices oscillate wildly due to a relatively inelastic demand, and an uncertain supply. Unfortunately the Reagan administration is about to dismantle this system and pave the way for large corporations to exercise the same control over farming that they now exercise over other industries. The ultimate effects will be the same as other industries- a few oligopolies will control the market, increase prices and restrict supply. Once again, the free market leads to its own dissolution..... But do not forget the role of government policy in making American agriculture the most productive in the world! tim sevener whuxl!orb