Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Overview: Agriculture is the production of food, feed, fiber, fuel and other goods by the systematic raising of plants and animals. According to the International Labor Organization, 42% of the world's laborers are employed in agriculture, making it by far the most common occupation. However, agricultural production accounts for less than 5% of the Gross World Product. Agriculture includes hydroponics, plant breeding, hybridization, gene manipulation, better management of soil nutrients, and improved weed