Beyond political economy: actor networks and the globalization of agriculture

This article provides a critical assessment of the traditional political economy approaches in analysis of agricultural globalization. The use of the actor network perspective is suggested to enhance our understanding of the globalization process. To illustrate the applicability of actor network theory to political economy studies, the globalization of the Canadian rapeseed (Brassica rapa and B. napus) industry is analyzed. It is shown that the globalization of the rapeseed industry proceeded through three simultaneously occurring developments: modification of relationships among people and plants; extension of rapeseed production networks; and redistribution of power, wealth and status among the actors engaged in global rapeseed production networks. Implications of the actor network approach for political economy studies are discussed.