Date of Award
2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. in Sociology
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
First Advisor
John J. Green
Second Advisor
James M. Thomas
Third Advisor
Kirsten Dellinger
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
From production to sale, farm operations thrive on the demanding work of farm labor. However, social research on agriculture does not give adequate attention to issues of labor and work. Through participant observation, interviews, and content analysis, I analyze work from multiple perspectives within Mississippi agriculture. I focus on individuals involved in produce farming in two communities located in Northwest and Southeast Mississippi. I apply the boundary work theoretical framework to my findings, which reveals the complexities of the agriculture sector in Mississippi and illuminates the ways in which individuals not only define themselves but the work they do and the sector at large. The findings from this study expand on Michèle Lamont’s studies by addressing the symbolic and social boundaries of local organizations and federal institutions and the ways these boundaries both constrain and enable farmers.
Recommended Citation
Canarios, Caroline, "Seed To Sale: Boundary Work In Mississippi Agriculture" (2015). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 854.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/854