Peasants, Capitalism, and Imperialism in an Age of Politico-Ecological Crisis

This book explores the dynamics of the peasantry, peasant resistance, and capitalism in the global South, focusing on the political role of the peasantry in contested transitions to capitalism and modes of production outside of capitalism. It presents case studies of contested transitions to agrarian capitalism in Bolivia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and South Asia, as well as a transition to a post-capitalist mode of production in Cuba. The book concludes with an assessment of capitalism and imperialism within the context of the contemporary politico-ecological crisis and the potential role of the peasantry as an agent of emancipatory change towards social and environmental sustainability.

Format: Hardback
Length: 348 pages
Publication date: 27 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and groundbreaking work delves into the intricate dynamics of the peasantry, peasant resistance, and their relationship with capitalism, the state, class, and imperialism in the global South. Building upon the insights presented in Peasants, Capitalism, and the Work of Eric R. Wolf, the authors offer a fresh theoretical framework to understand the complex processes shaping agrarian transitions, the emergence of imperialism, and the role of the peasantry within these dynamics.

In this companion volume, the authors delve deeper into the political dimensions of agrarian transitions, exploring the struggles and strategies employed by peasants as they navigate the transition from traditional to capitalist modes of production. They argue that an understanding of these processes requires a comprehensive analysis of class conflict and the resources and power different classes possess to engage in this struggle.

The book specifically focuses on the rise of capitalism in the global South, situated within the framework of imperial subordination to the global North. It examines the ways in which the peasantry has been both shaped by and resisted these dynamics, employing a range of case studies from Bolivia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and South Asia. These case studies provide valuable insights into the diverse experiences and challenges faced by peasants in different regions as they navigate the transition to agrarian capitalism.

Furthermore, the book explores the potential for transition to a post-capitalist mode of production, particularly in the context of Cuba. It examines the challenges and opportunities presented by this transition, as well as the role of the peasantry in shaping and resisting these dynamics. The book concludes with an assessment of the nature of capitalism and imperialism within the context of the contemporary politico-ecological crisis, and the potential role of the peasantry as an agent of emancipatory change towards social and environmental sustainability.

This book is a valuable resource for students and researchers in the fields of peasant studies, rural politics, agrarian studies, development, and political ecology. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex relationships between the peasantry, capitalism, the state, and imperialism in the global South, providing valuable insights into the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by peasants and their communities.

Weight: 821g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032508443