THE ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS ASSOCIATIONS IN SHAPING NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL POLICY: THE CASE OF SERiA

This paper describes the establishment of the professional organization of agricultural economists in Poland as the response of the profession to uncertainties associated with the transition to a market economy and the demand for socio-emotional goods. This demand and the accumulated social capital were essential for the successful functioning of the SERiA. The example of establishing a similar organization can be repeated if adequate social capital and the desire for distinction, self-regard and validation coincide.