Rasionalitas Petani sebagai Anggota Koperasi Unit Desa Jaya Tegalampel Bondowoso

Abstract

Cooperatives are economic institutions based on the principle of kinship and aimed at improving the welfare of their members. In the rural context, cooperatives function not only as economic institutions but also as social institutions that shape farmers’ relationships and patterns of action. This study aims to analyze the rationality of farmers in maintaining their membership in Koperasi Unit Desa (KUD) Jaya. This research employs a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation involving managers, staff, and members of KUD Jaya. Data analysis was conducted descriptively through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that farmers’ decisions to remain affiliated with KUD Jaya are not solely based on economic considerations, but are also influenced by factors of comfort and security, long-established social relationships, as well as structural factors such as government policies through the mechanism of the Definitive Group Needs Plan (Rencana Definitif Kebutuhan Kelompok/RDKK). Analysis based on Max Weber’s theory of types of rational social action indicates three relevant forms of rationality, namely instrumental rationality, affective rationality, and traditional rationality. Therefore, the sustainability of farmers’ membership in KUD Jaya is the result of the interplay between rational considerations, social bonds, and structural frameworks that shape farmers’ social actions.