Socially embedding the commodity chain: An exercise in relation to coir yarn spinning in southern India

Most of the available studies on commodity chains and upgrading pursue a narrow economic view. This paper points to the need for mapping the social linkages of production and movement of commodities. In relation to upgrading, the paper emphasizes the importance of looking at their social implications. Toward these goals, the paper advances the idea of socially embedding the commodity chain. The idea is demonstrated by examining, from a long-run. historical perspective, the global coir yarn commodity chain of southern India. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.