ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that counter-hegemonic ideas, production–distribution practices, and governance structures of the SAM are all vital integral components of counter-hegemony, and that the Thai SAM can be seen as part of global counter-hegemonic forces in the agri-food system. It discusses Thai and non-Thai sources of counter-hegemonic inspirations, such as localism, food sovereignty, and natural farming principles. The chapter also discusses main counter-hegemonic ideas and discourses of the SAM in Thailand, as well as attempts to construct the counter-hegemonic identity of farmers. It describes lingering hegemonic influence in the Thai state's promotion of sustainable agriculture and possibility of co-optation of oppositions. The chapter shows how the SAM in Thailand has been influenced by many domestic, regional and transnational sources of counter-hegemonic ideas. It elaborates more clearly how the SAM draws on various sources of inspirations to build their own counter-hegemonic ideas regarding alternative agri-food systems.
