This book reviews what was known as the Green Revolution in agricultural research from the 1940s to the 1970s and the recurring theme of the forgotten women farmers in all of these processes and that these technical advances were, and still remain, gender blind. This narrative is put in the context of what is referred to as a second Green Revolution in the 2000s, which focusses mainly on Africa.

Despite a significant proportion of farmers or principal cultivators being women they are generally left out of this research and its application on farms. There are two overarching themes the book develops that are central to this gendered narrative: the role of the state in supporting these programs, and how neoliberal-based ideology can hinder the state; and secondly, the almost religious zeal in the belief that technological advances can solve problems like global hunger. This story is rounded out with a discussion of Cold War politics and case studies from Mexico, India, and China.

Dr Patrick Kilby is a Senior Lecturer and convener of the Master of Applied Anthropology and Participatory Development Program. His research interests include NGOs and NGO accountability; gender and development; international development program management; and most recently the story of foreign aid. He has published two solo books NGOs in India: The challenges of women's empowerment and accountability (2011), and NGOs and Political Change: A History of the Australian Council for International Development (2015). He has recently completed a Fulbright Senior Scholars Fellowship at Kansas State University looking at the history of the Green Revolution, and also to advise on how to improve women’s engagement in their agriculture research in developing countries.

Please RSVP to patrick.kilby@anu.edu.au by March 29 so that numbers can be ascertained for catering purposes.

Light refreshments will be served after the event. To purchase a copy of his book please follow this link.

This event is supported by the Gender Institute.