Agriculture is one of humanity’s oldest and most essential activities. Yet, defining agriculture is not as straightforward as it might seem. Different research institutions, international organizations, and scholarly works describe it from unique perspectives—sometimes focusing on production, sometimes on systems, and sometimes on its broader environmental and social roles.
In this article, we compile and compare authoritative definitions of agriculture drawn from research reports, scholarly books, and global institutions. Together, they show how agriculture is more than just growing crops—it is a complex system shaping societies, economies, and ecosystems.
1. Agriculture as a Comprehensive System
“Agriculture encompasses the entirety of the system that grows, processes, and provides food, feed, fiber, ornamentals, and biofuel for the nation. Agriculture includes the management of natural resources such as surface water and ground water, forests and other lands for commercial or recreational uses, and wildlife; the social, physical, and biological environments; and the public policy issues that relate to the overall system.”
2. Agriculture as Human Impact on the Planet
“Agriculture is one of the human activities with large effect on our planet. It is an activity aimed at obtaining food, animal feed, and other goods through the cultivation of plants and animal husbandry, usually domesticated and bred for this purpose. Through various agrotechnical measures, farmers affect various environmental factors especially the soil, in order to improve the conditions for the growth of cultivated plant species and thus increase their yield.”
3. Agriculture as a Functional System
“An agricultural system is an assemblage of components which are united by some form of interaction and interdependence to achieve a specified agricultural objective Within its boundary.”
4. Agriculture as an Integrated Human Activity
National Academies Press – Agriculture and the Undergraduate
“Agriculture is defined as the activity of mankind that produces healthful and nutritious foods, industrial feedstocks, and renewable fuels while enhancing and maintaining the quality of the environment; energy, raw materials, and food are undeniably necessary for a stable society.”
5. Agriculture as Production with Environmental Influence
“An activity aimed at obtaining food, animal feed, and other goods through the cultivation of plants and animal husbandry … farmers affect various environmental factors especially the soil to improve yield.”
6. Agriculture as Multifunctional
“Agriculture contributes goods and services beyond food and fibre: environmental functions; livelihood/economic base; shaping landscapes; cultural and social functions.”
7. Agriculture as Land-Based Activity
Focused on the types of agricultural land: arable land, pastures, meadows, and permanent crops such as orchards, vineyards, and hop gardens.
8. Classical Dictionary Perspectives
While not research-based, dictionary definitions provide a concise contrast:
- “The science, art, or practice of cultivating the soil, producing crops, and raising livestock …”
- “The work of growing plants and taking care of animals that are used for food.”
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