I checked out all of the farms in my area that had websites, and it looks like they're run by real conscientious people motivated by ideals, not money. Their farms are mostly organic and cruelty free. Most of the sites said you can schedule a visit to the farm to look at the way the food is grown and the way the animals are cared for. Also, in many cases you can do some work at the farm in order to help pay for your food! That sounds like a great risk-free way to learn how to become self-sufficient by growing your own food. You'd also get fresh air, exercise, communion with the plants and animals, and the chance to meet good people.