Two worlds, two languages: processes of social mediation and knowledge diversity in the construction of projects for rural development

Abstract

In face of construction of rural development patterns, intentional projects, plans and programs are put into practice by certain social actors responsible for mediating between the local and technical-scientific knowledge. The formation of these actors has been organized linked to a reallocation of political and moral principles, which make the term mediation miss the allusion to dialectical social processes; it highlights mechanistic aspects instead. Thus, there are efforts in thinking about social change among farmers and about proposals for an alternative agriculture, less subordinated to the market and less dependent on technological packages. This requires changes in way of thinking of the researchers, development agencies and farmers. In light of a recent theoretical debate, this article presents some consistencies and inconsistencies identified in social mediation process involving farmers and technicians, showing the possibility of analyzing interface situations as a way to avoid simplifications in understanding the process.