Critical Rural Theory Structure, Space, Culture

Book Details

• Authors: Alexander R. Thomas, Brian M. Lowe, Gregory M. Fulkerson, and Polly J. Smith

• Binding: Paperback

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• ISBN: 9788131607367

• Language: English

• Release Date: 2015

• Pages: 226

• Package Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.2 x 1.0 inches

About the Book

Critical Rural Theory: Structure, Space, Culture offers an in-depth exploration of the relationship between rural communities and urban society. This book weaves together key concepts of structure, space, and culture to explore the ways urban systems create and sustain a hegemonic relationship with rural areas. The central theme of the book revolves around urbanormativity—the cultural assumption of the dominance and superiority of urban communities and lifestyles.

This concept of urbanormativity emerges from the structural forces within urban society that favor cities over rural communities, often resulting in exploitative relationships. The book delves into how the physical and social structures of urban spaces influence experiences and cultural dynamics. By examining popular culture, the expansion of urban areas, and the historical patterns of social change, this book uncovers the mechanisms that sustain these urban-rural divides across generations.

Contents

Part I: Structure

1. What is Rural?

2. Rural Political Economy

3. Rural Space

Part II: Space
4. Structuration in the Catskills
5. Space and Simulacra

Part III: Culture
6. Rural Representations
7. Urbanormativity
8. Structure, Space, and Culture

About the Author / Editor

• Alexander R. Thomas is an Associate Professor of Sociology at SUNY College at Oneonta.

• Brian M. Lowe is an Associate Professor of Sociology at SUNY College at Oneonta.

• Gregory M. Fulkerson is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at SUNY College at Oneonta.

• Polly J. Smith is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Utica College.