Critically discuss Von-Thunen's model of agriculture Landes. State how far it is relevant in the present day society. Mention the physical and cultural factors' responsible for the development of dairy farming in temperature land.

Von Thünen's model of agricultural land use, often referred to as the "Isolated State" model, was proposed by German economist Johann Heinrich von Thünen in the early 19th century. This theoretical model aimed to explain the spatial distribution of various agricultural activities around a central market town. The model was based on the idea that farmers make decisions about what to produce based on the interplay of transportation costs, land rent, and market demand.

According to Von Thünen's model, agricultural activities were organized in concentric rings around a central market town. The rings represented different types of agriculture, with the choice of crops or livestock being influenced by their perishability and weight, which in turn determined transportation costs. The model suggested the following zones:-

Intensive Gardening:- Closest to the market town, this zone would contain high-value, perishable crops and products that could justify the high transportation costs.

Dairy and Market Gardening: This zone would have dairy farming and other perishable products that require frequent transport to the central market due to their relative weight.

Forest and Extensive Agriculture: In this zone, less perishable products like grains and wood were produced. Transportation costs were lower due to the reduced weight of these products.

Livestock Ranching: Farthest from the market town, this zone would be dedicated to extensive livestock farming, as the products could tolerate longer transportation times.

However, while Von Thünen's model provided a simplified understanding of agricultural land use patterns based on transportation and market dynamics, it has several limitations when applied to modern society:-

Technological Advances: Modern transportation and communication technologies have significantly altered the dynamics of agricultural production and distribution. The model doesn't account for the rapid movement of goods over long distances.

Global Trade: Today's agricultural markets are often global, with products transported internationally. The model's focus on a single central market doesn't capture the complexities of global supply chains.

Specialization: Agricultural diversification and specialization have led to the coexistence of various activities in close proximity, challenging the model's concentric ring structure.

Non-economic Factors: The model doesn't consider non-economic factors such as government policies, environmental concerns, and cultural preferences that influence land use decisions.

Regarding the development of dairy farming in temperate regions, both physical and cultural factors play significant roles:

Physical Factors:-

Climate: Temperate regions with moderate temperatures and sufficient rainfall provide favorable conditions for dairy farming.

Topography: Gentle slopes and fertile valleys offer suitable land for grazing and cultivation of fodder crops.

Water Availability: Adequate water sources are essential for dairy farming, as cows require regular hydration.

Cultural Factors:-

Traditions: In many temperate cultures, dairy products have been part of diets for centuries, encouraging the continuation and growth of dairy farming.

Consumer Demand: Cultural preferences for dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt drive demand, supporting the economic viability of dairy farming.

Skills and Knowledge: Generational transfer of knowledge and expertise in dairy farming contributes to the persistence and success of this industry.

In conclusion, Von Thünen's agricultural land use model provides a historical framework for understanding agricultural patterns, but it has limitations in capturing the complexities of modern agricultural systems. In temperate regions, the development of dairy farming is influenced by a combination of physical factors like climate and topography, as well as cultural factors like tradition and consumer demand.