In this engaging discussion, Dr. Alyssa Paredes, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, dives into the intricate world of Southeast Asia's banana plantations. She reveals the historical and socio-economic challenges faced by local communities, highlighting labor exploitation and environmental degradation. Dr. Paredes also explores the intersection of agriculture and capitalism, emphasizing indigenous struggles for land rights and the need for sustainable practices. Her insights illuminate the complex ties between commodification, colonialism, and multi-species relationships.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Alyssa Paredes, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, delves into the intricate dynamics of plantation agriculture in Southeast Asia. She examines the historical evolution of plantation capitalism in the Philippines and its ties to global supply chains, particularly in the banana industry. Paredes highlights labor exploitation, environmental degradation, and community resistance, advocating for genuine land reforms that prioritize sustainability. She also connects the Southeast Asian context to broader historical narratives, including ties with the Black Atlantic.