Definition of Agriculture
Agriculture can be defined as a set of well-studied scientific processes and practices aimed at cultivating land to produce a sufficient quantity of crops and livestock. These operations not only focus on production but also strive to protect the land from degradation and irresponsible use.
The Origin and Evolution of Agriculture
Agriculture marked a turning point in the development of modern civilized societies. Human communities transitioned from relying on primitive hunting methods to agricultural practices due to growing populations and the need for reliable resources to meet their needs. It is also believed that climatic changes at the end of the Ice Age played a significant role in this shift. Among the earliest cultivated plants were grains and figs, with evidence of fig cultivation dating back approximately 11,300 years.
As for animal agriculture, cows, goats, sheep, and pigs were among the first domesticated species for food production in the Fertile Crescent region. It is thought that some prehistoric communities in Southeastern Europe were initially unable to consume cow’s milk until a genetic mutation, through natural selection, altered its properties.
Types of Agriculture
Agriculture serves as a livelihood for millions of people worldwide. Regardless of its many forms, it can be categorized into two main types:
- Subsistence Agriculture:
This is small-scale farming aimed at achieving self-sufficiency for farming families by providing their basic food needs. - Commercial Agriculture:
The primary goal of commercial agriculture is to sell agricultural products in commercial markets. Modern farms now span vast areas and often focus on a single crop, such as the wheat farms found in the Midwestern United States.
