Subsistence refers to the basic needs and necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. It is the minimum level of living that is required for survival.
Subsistence is the foundation for survival, and it is the starting point for any society to build upon.
Understanding subsistence is crucial for understanding the way people live and survive in different cultures.
Subsistence is not just about survival, but it is also about the way people interact with their environment, the resources they use, and the technologies they employ.
Subsistence is also about the way people organize their societies and economies, and the way they view their place in the world.
Key Takeaways
- Subsistence refers to the basic needs and necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing.
- Understanding subsistence is crucial for understanding the way people live and survive in different cultures.
- Subsistence is not just about survival, but it is also about the way people interact with their environment, the resources they use, and the technologies they employ.
Understanding Subsistence
Subsistence refers to the minimum level of resources necessary for survival. It is the state of being able to meet one’s basic needs, such as food, water, shelter, and clothing.
This concept is often used in discussions of poverty, as those who lack the resources to meet their basic needs are said to be living in a state of subsistence.
In philosophy, subsistence refers to the state of existing independently of anything else. This means that something that is subsistent does not rely on anything else for its existence.
For example, according to some philosophical traditions, God is subsistent, as he exists independently of anything else.
The condition of subsistence is often associated with rural or traditional societies, where people rely on subsistence farming or hunting and gathering to meet their basic needs.
However, subsistence can also be relevant in urban or industrialized societies, where some people may struggle to meet their basic needs due to poverty or other factors.
Being subsistent means being self-sufficient and not relying on others for one’s survival. This can be a desirable state for some individuals or communities, as it allows for greater independence and autonomy.
Existing in a state of subsistence can be challenging, as it often requires a significant amount of work and resourcefulness to meet one’s basic needs.
However, it can also be a rewarding and fulfilling way of life, as it allows for a closer connection to the natural world and a greater sense of self-reliance.
Subsistence in Different Cultures
Subsistence is the means by which people obtain the basic necessities of life, such as food, water, shelter, and clothing. It is a fundamental aspect of human existence, and the methods by which people subsist can vary widely depending on their culture and environment.
For example, Alaska Natives have traditionally relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering to meet their subsistence needs. They have developed sophisticated techniques for harvesting food from the land and sea, such as using nets to catch fish and building ice cellars to store meat.
In contrast, Namibians in the Kalahari Desert have traditionally relied on hunting and gathering as well, but they have adapted to their arid environment by relying on plants and animals that are able to survive in the harsh conditions.
They have developed a deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna, and have developed techniques for finding water and food in the desert.
Subsistence practices can also vary widely within a single culture, depending on factors such as geography, climate, and population density.
For example, the Inuit of Alaska have traditionally relied on hunting marine mammals such as whales and seals, but Inuit communities in more southern regions may rely more on fishing and hunting land animals.
Modes of Subsistence
Subsistence refers to the means by which people obtain the basic necessities of life, such as food, water, and shelter. There are various modes of subsistence that have been practiced throughout human history, and many of these modes are still in use today.
Subsistence Farming
Subsistence farming is a mode of subsistence in which people grow crops and raise animals for their own consumption. This type of farming is typically practiced in rural areas where people do not have access to modern agricultural technologies.
Subsistence farmers often use traditional methods of farming, such as crop rotation and intercropping, to maintain soil fertility and maximize crop yields.
Farming
Farming is a mode of subsistence that involves the cultivation of crops and the raising of animals for profit.
Unlike subsistence farming, which is focused on meeting the needs of the farmer and their family, farming is a commercial enterprise that is intended to generate income.
Modern farming techniques, such as the use of pesticides and fertilizers, have made it possible to produce large quantities of food at a relatively low cost.
Fishing
Fishing is a mode of subsistence that involves the catching of fish and other aquatic animals for food. This mode of subsistence is typically practiced in coastal areas and on islands where people have access to the sea.
Fishing can be done using a variety of methods, including nets, traps, and hooks.
Hunting
Hunting is a mode of subsistence that involves the killing of wild animals for food. This mode of subsistence is typically practiced in areas where people have access to large game animals, such as deer and elk.
Hunting can be done using a variety of weapons, including bows and arrows, rifles, and shotguns.
Agriculture
Agriculture is a mode of subsistence that involves the large-scale cultivation of crops and the raising of animals for food. This mode of subsistence is typically practiced in areas where there is a high demand for food, such as urban areas.
Modern agricultural techniques, such as the use of genetically modified crops and intensive animal farming, have made it possible to produce large quantities of food at a relatively low cost.
Resources for Subsistence
Subsistence refers to the means of sustaining oneself or a community with the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. In order to achieve subsistence, it is essential to have access to various resources. The following are some of the resources that are commonly used for subsistence.
Food
Food is a basic necessity for subsistence. It is essential to have access to a variety of food sources, including crops, livestock, and fish.
Crops can be grown in fields or gardens, while livestock can be raised on farms. Fish can be caught in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
It is important to have a diverse range of food sources to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet.
Natural Resources
Natural resources such as forests and lands are also important for subsistence.
Forests provide wood for building and fuel, as well as food sources such as berries, nuts, and game. Lands can be used for agriculture and grazing, providing food sources and income.
It is important to manage these resources sustainably to ensure their continued availability.
Ores
Ores are resources that can be mined from the earth, such as coal, iron, and copper. These resources are used for building and manufacturing, and can provide income for communities.
However, mining can have negative environmental impacts and it is important to manage these resources responsibly.
Subsistence and Livelihood
Subsistence refers to the means by which individuals or communities obtain the basic necessities of life such as food, shelter, and clothing. It is the minimum level of survival that can be sustained without external assistance.
Livelihood, on the other hand, refers to the means by which individuals or communities earn a living. It includes the activities, assets, and resources necessary to support their daily needs and improve their standard of living.
In many parts of the world, subsistence and livelihood are closely intertwined.
People who rely on subsistence agriculture or fishing, for example, may also engage in other income-generating activities to supplement their earnings.
The concept of subsistence is particularly relevant in developing countries where many people live below the poverty line and struggle to meet their basic needs. In these contexts, subsistence is often synonymous with survival.
However, subsistence is not limited to developing countries. In some developed countries, there are also individuals and communities who rely on subsistence activities such as hunting, fishing, and foraging to meet their basic needs.
Subsistence Level and Survival
Subsistence level refers to the minimum amount of resources required for an individual or a group to maintain their existence. It includes the basic necessities of life such as food, water, shelter, and clothing.
The subsistence level varies depending on the geographical location, climate, and cultural practices of a community.
Survival, on the other hand, refers to the ability to stay alive in adverse conditions. It involves obtaining the necessary resources to sustain life, including food, water, and shelter.
Survival skills are essential for individuals who may find themselves in dangerous or challenging situations.
In order to survive, individuals must have access to nourishment and sustenance. This can be achieved through hunting, fishing, farming, or gathering wild plants.
In some cases, individuals may need to rely on stored food or trade with others to obtain the necessary resources.
While subsistence level and survival may seem similar, they are distinct concepts.
Subsistence level refers to the minimum amount of resources required for existence, while survival refers to the ability to stay alive in adverse conditions.
Impact of Environment and Technology on Subsistence
The environment and technology have a significant impact on subsistence. Subsistence is the practice of obtaining food and other necessities of life from the natural environment. It is influenced by several factors, including weather, earth, technology, arid, and borderlands.
Weather is an essential factor that affects subsistence. It determines the availability of water, which is crucial for survival.
In arid regions, where water is scarce, people rely on technology to access water. For instance, they use wells, dams, and irrigation systems to collect and distribute water.
The earth also plays a vital role in subsistence. It provides the soil necessary for agriculture, which is the primary source of food for most people.
The type of soil, its fertility, and the availability of nutrients determine the success of agriculture.
In borderlands, where the soil is often poor, people rely on technology to improve soil fertility. For instance, they use fertilizers and crop rotation techniques to enhance soil quality.
Technology has revolutionized subsistence. It has made it possible to produce more food with less labor.
For instance, tractors and other farm machinery have made agriculture more efficient. Technology has also made it possible to store food for long periods, reducing the risk of food shortages.
In arid regions, people use technology to desalinate seawater and make it safe for drinking.
Subsistence and Economy
Subsistence refers to the basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, and shelter. The way in which people obtain these necessities is closely linked to their economic system.
In a subsistence economy, people produce or gather what they need to survive, without the use of money or markets.
In a market economy, on the other hand, people rely on markets to buy and sell goods and services. The price of goods and services is determined by supply and demand.
In a subsistence economy, the price of goods and services is often determined by the amount of labor required to produce them.
Subsistence economies are often associated with an inferior mode of being, as they are seen as less developed than market economies. However, this view is not accurate, as subsistence economies can be highly sophisticated and sustainable.
Many indigenous communities around the world still practice subsistence economies, using traditional knowledge and practices to sustain themselves and their environments.
While subsistence economies may not rely on markets, they are still subject to external factors such as climate change, political instability, and resource depletion. As such, it is important to recognize the value and resilience of subsistence economies, and to support their continued existence and development.
Philosophical and Abstract Aspects of Subsistence
Subsistence is not only a practical concept, but it also has philosophical and abstract aspects that have been explored by various thinkers throughout history. This section will delve into some of these aspects and how they relate to subsistence.
One of the abstract aspects of subsistence is its connection to the concept of essence. In philosophy, essence refers to the fundamental nature of something. In the case of subsistence, it can be argued that the essence of a person or community is tied to their ability to meet their basic needs for survival. This is because without subsistence, individuals and communities cannot exist.
Another abstract aspect of subsistence is its connection to the idea of the individual whole. This refers to the idea that an individual is a complete and self-contained entity. In the context of subsistence, this means that an individual must be able to meet their own basic needs for survival, such as food, water, and shelter. This idea is reflected in the concept of self-sufficiency, which emphasizes the importance of individuals being able to provide for themselves.
Subsistence also has connections to the divine or god-like. In some cultures, subsistence is seen as a gift from the gods or a divine force. This is because the ability to meet basic needs for survival is seen as a fundamental aspect of human existence, and therefore something that is bestowed upon individuals by a higher power.
At the same time, subsistence is also individualized. This means that each individual has their own unique needs and circumstances that must be taken into account when considering subsistence. For example, someone living in a desert environment will have different subsistence needs than someone living in a forested area.
Finally, subsistence is also a timeless concept. While the specific methods and technologies used to meet basic needs may change over time, the fundamental need for subsistence remains the same. This is because subsistence is tied to the basic requirements for human survival, which have remained constant throughout history.
References and Further Readings
For those interested in learning more about subsistence, there are a variety of resources available. Below are some references and further readings that may be of interest:
References
- United Nations. (2015). Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Retrieved from https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/post2015/transformingourworld
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2018). The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2018: Building climate resilience for food security and nutrition. Rome: FAO. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/3/I9553EN/i9553en.pdf
General Terms
The term “subsistence” is often used in the context of food security and poverty alleviation. It refers to the minimum level of resources necessary for survival, including food, water, shelter, and other basic needs. In some cases, subsistence may be achieved through traditional farming or hunting practices, while in other cases it may require access to modern technologies and markets.
Corpora
The term “subsistence” appears frequently in academic literature related to development, agriculture, and food security. Corpora such as JSTOR and Google Scholar can be useful for finding articles and studies related to this topic.
Cambridge Dictionary
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, subsistence refers to “the state of having just enough money or food to stay alive.” It can also refer to “the practice of growing just enough food to live on, without trying to make a profit.”
Cambridge University Press
Cambridge University Press publishes a variety of books related to subsistence and related topics, including sustainable agriculture, poverty alleviation, and rural development. Some examples include “The Oxford Handbook of Food, Politics, and Society” and “Agriculture and Rural Development in a Globalizing World.”
Licensors
Many organizations and institutions hold licenses for resources related to subsistence, including academic journals, databases, and other digital resources. These may be available through university libraries or other subscription services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of subsistence farming?
Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where farmers grow crops and raise livestock for their own consumption rather than for sale in the market. The goal of subsistence farming is to produce enough food to feed one’s family or community.
What are some examples of subsistence living?
Subsistence living refers to a way of life where individuals or communities rely on their own resources to meet their basic needs. Examples of subsistence living include hunting and gathering, fishing, farming, and herding.
How do you pronounce subsistence?
Subsistence is pronounced as “suhb-sis-tuhns”.
What is the difference between subsistence and commercial farming?
The main difference between subsistence and commercial farming is that subsistence farming is for personal consumption, while commercial farming is for profit. Subsistence farming is typically practiced on a small scale, while commercial farming is done on a larger scale and involves the use of modern technologies and techniques.
What is subsistence hunting and gathering?
Subsistence hunting and gathering is a type of subsistence living where individuals or communities rely on hunting wild animals and gathering wild plants for food and other resources. This is often practiced by indigenous communities living in remote areas.
What is the importance of subsistence agriculture?
Subsistence agriculture is important because it provides food security for individuals and communities who may not have access to markets or modern technologies. It also helps to preserve traditional farming practices and biodiversity.
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