ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book describes how rurality is a spatial concept, since it involves large areas with low populations and distance from urban centers, together with the concepts of rural development and policy. It focuses on Europe and North America, and OECD countries in general. The book describes how current comparative and process policy theories can be applied to specifically rural issues. It discusses the roles of territory and decentralization in rural policy evolution and outcomes. The book addresses people and society in rural areas, exploring a range of socio-economic issues. It also describes the causes and consequences of rural migration, and depopulation, and issues related to population diversity. The book explores the role and potential role of women in agriculture, food security, and rural development.
