Centralizing the Decision of Family Farmers in the Region of Mossoró – RN: a Comparative Analysis Between Cooperated/Associated and Non-Cooperated/Associated

Abstract

Purpose: Comparative analysis of the decision-making process of family farmers who participate and do not participate in associations and cooperatives in the region of Mossoró – RN.   Theoretical framework: Family farming is a productive organization that coexists with the capitalist structure of production and has unique features, since the owner is also a worker, manages the means of production and does not primarily aim at financial profit, since production is intended to support the family and the property. The decision-making process escapes economic logic, as it also considers social, environmental, ethical and cultural aspects. Cooperatives and associations represent an alternative to the problems imposed by the market.   Method/design/approach: This is a quantitative-descriptive research. A total of 137 family farmers from the region of Mossoró – RN participated in the study. The questionnaire was organized with 5 questions about the centralization of decision-making used by family farmers in the region.   Results and conclusion: The decision-making of farmers in the management of their properties does not differ in terms of participation or non-participation in associations and cooperatives.   Research implications: Although associations and cooperatives present multiple responses to the problems arising from globalization, a significant portion of farmers do not participate in them, and this factor should be deepened to understand the non-participation of farmers in associations and cooperatives and their non-influence in the decision-making of those.   Originality/value: Studies of this nature lead to rethinking and improving the practices of decision-making, marketing and integration of subjects within the scope of family farming.