Agricultural technology

the potential socioeconomic impact

Abstract

This paper first briefly describes past and prospective developments in agricultural technology, then forecasts changes in agricultural productivity and structure from emerging technology. Much of the paper addresses the socio-economic implications of changes in agricultural technology. Technology, defined as the means used to convert resources into things needed or desired, has profoundly altered agriculture and society over time. It has done so in three past revolutions. A fourth revolution is beginning.