Sustainable agricultureAgriculture has been a fundamental component of human societies for centuries. It is so fundamental that it is often forgotten by those who depend on its products, but are not directly involved in production. As the 21st century dawns, agriculture is beginning to receive more attention from the general public, as its implications are considered and the problem of a potential global food shortage is addressed. With the future in mind, much of the agricultural establishment uses words like biotechnology and high tech to describe its goals for American agriculture. With few exceptions, traditional farmers see a continuing trend toward industrial agricultural practices that continue to drive production toward fewer, larger, and more specialized production units, which are virtually responsible for all stages of production at the farm level. global scale. This increased specialization depends on new biological technologies and information technologies at every level, from the farms where food is produced to the markets where it is distributed. While these predictions are legitimate, a growing number of farmers, concerned audiences, and educators envision a very different future for agriculture. Such a view is represented in the writings of John E. Ikerd, an agricultural economist and professor emeritus at the University of Missouri. In his article, “Sustainable Agriculture: A Necessary Alternative to Industrial Agriculture,” Ikerd questions whether the guiding trends in agriculture over the past hundred years can continue to be the guiding force in agriculture. He argues that even if the tools of the future "high-tech" may be different from the tools of the industrial era, the objectives of specialization, mechanization...... middle of paper ......l>. - -- "Sustainable agriculture: a positive alternative to industrial agriculture" December 7, 1996. October 4, 2002. --- "Rethinking the role of agriculture in the future of rural communities" 25, January 2002. October 4 2002. Pretty, Jules N. Regenerative Agriculture: Policies and Practices for Sustainability and Self-Reliance. Washington, DC: Joseph Henry Press, 1995. --- “Supporting Policies and Practices.” Facilitate sustainable agriculture. ed. NG Roling and MAE Wagemakers. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 1998. USDA press release. “Adjusting Agricultural Practices to Minimize Water Pollution,” November 17, 2000. November 10 2002.>.