Since its inception, Agricultural & Rural Studies (A&R) has held cultural development as a cornerstone of its identity, weaving a distinct cultural framework into the very fabric of its growth. From its first issue, the journal recognized that beyond disseminating research, it must cultivate a shared ethos—one that bridges academic rigor with humanistic values, global perspectives with local relevance, and individual scholarship with collective progress.
(1) Vision
To Be a Leading Academic Journal at the Nexus of Agricultural Sustainability, Rural Revitalization & Farmer Well-Being.
(2) Mission
To ordain conscience for Heaven and Earth; to secure life and fortune for the people; to continue lost teachings for past sages; to establish peace for all future generations.
— Zai Zhang (Hengqu), Philosopher (1020–1077 CE) | "The Four Principles of Hengqu" (为天地立心，为生民立命，为往圣继绝学，为万世开太平).
Our mission is to translate this millennia-old philosopher’s vow into contemporary scholarly action: producing rigorous, relevant knowledge that serves the land, its people, and a sustainable future.
(3) Core Values | GITO Compass
- Global – Fostering inclusive dialogue across cultures, languages, and geographies, enabling knowledge to flow without borders.
- Impact-Driven – Focusing on real-world challenges, prioritizing research that delivers tangible societal value.
- Trustworthy – Upholding integrity through rigorous standards and transparent practices, safeguarding every trust placed in us.
- Open – Democratizing knowledge through CC BY 4.0 licensing, ensuring free dissemination and reuse.
(4) Philosophical Tenet
Promise Less, Deliver More
(5) Motto
A&R | Born from a Dream, Born to Shine
(6) Slogan
Pour Your Heart into A&R
Together, these cultural tenets position Agricultural & Rural Studies not just as a journal, but as a movement—a bridge between ancient wisdom and cutting-edge innovation, uniting academia, practitioners, and communities in a shared quest for a resilient future.
Over time, this cultural commitment has become A&R’s greatest asset. It differentiates the journal in a crowded academic landscape, attracting scholars who align with its mission and readers who seek research with purpose. More importantly, it ensures that A&R remains relevant: as global challenges in agriculture and rural development evolve, the journal’s cultural foundation—grounded in wisdom, openness, and community—equips it to adapt, innovate, and lead. In essence, A&R’s culture is not just a part of its story; it is the story.