ABSTRACT

This collection of original chapters, written by prominent social scientists, elucidates the theory and practice of contemporary rural sociology. The book applies lessons from the careers of sociologists and their field research endeavors, covering a wide range of topics: agricultural production, processing, and marketing; international food security and rural development; degradation of the bio-physical environment across borders; and the study of community, family, health, and many other issues in an increasingly globalized world. The authors’ candid accounts provide insight into possibilities for enhancing opportunity and equality and serving basic human needs.

part |61 pages

Background Accounts

chapter |25 pages

Rural Sociology

A Slightly Personal History

chapter |27 pages

“I Could Tell Stories 'Til the Cows Come Home”

Personal Biography Meets Collective Biography

part |77 pages

Candid Accounts

part |51 pages

Theory and Method

chapter |11 pages

Rural Sociology

An Intellectual Crescent Wrench

chapter |16 pages

Avoiding Burnout

All Who Wander are Not Lost