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Lessons from a Career in Agricultural Development and Research Evaluation

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  • George W. Norton

Abstract

Lessons are presented from a career in evaluating impacts of agricultural technologies and institutions, with a major focus on pest management in developing countries. Agricultural productivity growth is fundamental to economic transformation and development, driven largely by technological and institutional changes. The latter are induced by changes in relative prices and are affected by transactions costs and collective action with implications for efficiency and poverty. Agricultural development leads to changes in farm structure and to many of the most educated existing rural communities. Institutional changes are needed to encourage rural investment and compensate those caught in place‐based poverty. Poverty is exacerbated by effects of climate change and pest problems with significant implications for the agenda of agricultural economists.

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  • George W. Norton, 2020. "Lessons from a Career in Agricultural Development and Research Evaluation," Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 42(2), pages 151-167, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:apecpp:v:42:y:2020:i:2:p:151-167
    DOI: 10.1002/aepp.13052
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