ABSTRACT
Research to date has emphasized symbols of the good farmer which are lodged in space, that is, communities of place. In this chapter we consider how symbols of good farming are established and influenced by communities of practice – peer groups which are not constrained to neighbourhood relations. In doing so, we delve deeper into the role of learning, and the associated implications for understanding of ‘bad farming’. We consider three case studies of specific communities of practice: organic farmers, new entrants to farming, and pedigree livestock producers. We then consider how standards of ‘good farming’ are embodied in livestock: the ‘good cow’. We conclude with a summary of recent research into how non-farmers – particularly veterinarians and members of the public – understand and utilise standards of ‘good farming’.
