The Economics of Small Holdings
A Study Based on a Survey of Small Scale Farming in Carmarthenshire

Originally published in 1927, this book analyses 'the economic position of the small cultivator', based on a survey of small-scale farming in Carmarthenshire.

Edgar Thomas (Author)

9781107586727, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 November 2015

146 pages
17.8 x 12.7 x 1 cm, 0.15 kg

Originally published in 1927, this book provides an analysis 'of the economic position of the small cultivator, particularly in contrast with that of the wage-labourer' based on a survey of small-scale farming in the Carmarthenshire area. At the time of publication numerous works had been written on the economics of large and small holdings, but most of these texts were lacking in comprehensive data. The aim of this study was collect in one place extensive and reliable data on the lives of smallholders, thereby giving an insight into their true economic position. A bibliography is included and notes are incorporated throughout. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in smallholdings, British agriculture and the history of economics.

Preface C. S. Orwin
Part I. Introduction: 1. Preliminary statement
2. Definition of unit
3. Arguments for small holdings
4. Arguments against small holdings
5. Tentative conclusions
6. Outline of study
Part II. General and Historical Outline of the Area of the Study: 1. The county of Carmarthen
2. General character of Carmarthenshire farming
3. Population
4. Historical sketch of small holdings in Carmarthenshire
5. Present division of holdings
6. Tenure of small holdings
7. Geographical distribution of small holdings
8. Employment census of the occupiers of small holdings
Part III. Economic Conditions of Carmarthenshire Smallholders
Section A. Method of Investigation
Section B. Analysis of a Survey of 262 Small Holdings: 1. Classification of holdings
2. Crops
3. Live stock
4. Employment
5. General equipment of holdings
Section C. Analysis of 93 Financial Accounts: 1. Classification
2. Gross sales of money receipts
3. Money expenses
4. Balance of money receipts and money expenses
5. The gross expenses
6. The gross income
7. Net returns per acre
8. Net returns per holding
Section D. Summary
Appendix A. Bibliography
Appendix B. List of tables
Appendix C. Summaries of comparable studies abroad
Index.

Subject Areas: Microeconomics [KCC]