Building agroecological traction: Engaging discourse, the imaginary, and critical praxis for food system transformation

Shifting the current food system toward a more sustainable and equitable model requires an alternative imaginary. Agroecology represents such approach, but despite construct’s promise, policy academic communities alike continue to maintain system. We contend that shifting away from existing, dominant researchers engage stakeholders with discourses give meaning agroecological provide methodological case study for how interested analysts may build traction through critical praxis. advance our argument theoretically, methodologically, empirically. Theoretically, we draw on scholarship arguing transformation discursive Methodologically, outline Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as both theoretical framework, illuminates power shapes future of food. first used CDA analyze United States Agency International Development (USAID) policy, subsequently presented those results focus groups comprised USAID-funded university-based research-practitioners. Empirically, suggest methodology one possible mechanism or strategy encourage dialogue necessary secure new conclude by offering recommendations inquiry.