Papers
4
Total Citations
242
H-Index
4
About
Nathalie Hostiou is a leading researcher in the sociology of agricultural work, specializing in the human and social dimensions of precision livestock farming (PLF) and agricultural robotics. Her work critically examines how digital technologies—from automated milking systems to robotic feeders—transform farm labor, human-animal relationships, and the daily lives of farmers. Hostiou’s major contributions include demonstrating that while PLF can reduce physical drudgery, it often redefines rather than eliminates work, shifting tasks toward data management and system monitoring. Her landmark review, "Impact of precision livestock farming on work and human-animal interactions on dairy farms" (2017, 112 citations), is a foundational text in the field, revealing how technology can both distance farmers from their animals and create new forms of care. Her systematic review on robots and farm work transformations (2022, 79 citations) further established her as a key voice in agricultural technology studies. Notably, her research on farmers’ representations of PLF (2020, 45 citations) highlights the nuanced psychological and relational effects of automation, challenging purely technical narratives. Hostiou’s work is essential for anyone interested in the future of farming, offering a critical, human-centered perspective on technological change in agriculture.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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- 4Robots and Transformations of Work on Farms: A Systematic Review6 citations · 2021