The cultural background of the sustainability of the traditional farming system in the Ghouta, oasis of Damascus, Syria

• This paper discusses the practical impact of a non-materialistic culture on sustainable farm management. Two elements are discussed: first, how deeply rooted religion is in this culture; second, the feasibility of using both human knowledge and experience, so-called tradition and divine guidance in management. Finally, the implications of the fusion of these two elements are drawn. The outcome is the capability of man to integrate ethical values into decisions and actions. This integration, when applied by skilled farmers, leads to a management of natural resources in an altruistic fashion and not merely to economic ends. Moreover, it makes agriculture meaningful and sustainable.

Nyckelord

alternative agriculture

tradition

sustainability

farm management

ethics

culture

religion

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)