Agrarianism is a social and political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of agriculture and rural life. It advocates for a society that values farming and the cultivation of land, believing that these activities foster community, self-sufficiency, and a connection to nature. Agrarianism often critiques industrialization and urbanization, arguing that they can lead to social and environmental degradation.
The philosophy is rooted in the idea that small-scale farming promotes a more equitable and sustainable way of life. Prominent figures associated with agrarianism include Thomas Jefferson, who championed the yeoman farmer as an ideal citizen, and Wendell Berry, a contemporary advocate for sustainable agriculture and rural communities.