Have Farmers Lost Their Uniqueness?

Abstract

Modern technology, communication, transportation, and economics have transformed the farming industry and may have altered the typical farmer's character and personality. However, this study concludes that farmers have not lost their uniqueness. Results indicate that farmers differ from the general population in some aspects of morality, political ideology, work ethic, and outlook. Compared with the general population, the farm family is more stable, and the typical farmer is more religious, politically more conservative, and happier and more satisfied with some aspects of life. In many respects, particularly those concerning work ethic and outlook, farmers are not significantly different from others. They are more satisfied with their jobs, which appears to be a function of self-employment. As a group, farmers are among the better-adjusted members of society. They are optimistic and have a healthy outlook in terms of interpersonal relationships and general viewpoint.