Monocultures are no solution

A look into the history of agriculture tells us a lot about social developments that have occurred. Florian Hurtig takes us through the history of mankind and the cultivation of its food – from the huge tree gardens of the early Jōmon culture in Japan, through to the beginnings of state cultivation of land in Mesopotamia, to the colonial planation economy until we finally arrive at the agricultural industry of today.

He shows us how the formation of hierarchical societies and states has led to the loss of diverse ecosystems. It has paved the way for monocultures, monotechnology and monopoly – structures that have prevailed until today.

This book doesn’t only look into the past but also presents clear ideas of how we must change our agriculture and society in order to meet the current crisis.

FLORIAN HURTIG is a permaculture designer, arborist and climate activist. He uses the knowledge he gained from his long term engagement with garden cultures to inform his understanding of people and has since developed his theory of poly-and monocultural social structures.