Community Civics and Rural Life   By: Arthur William Dunn (1868-1927)

Community Civics and Rural Life by Arthur William Dunn is an insightful and comprehensive examination of the social dynamics and challenges faced by rural communities. Although initially published in 1920, this book continues to offer valuable insights into the importance of rural life in today's society.

Dunn's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Through a meticulous exploration of various aspects of rural community life, including agriculture, economics, education, and governance, Dunn provides readers with a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist within these communities.

One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on the importance of local governance and active citizen participation. Dunn highlights the vital role that individuals play in shaping their communities and emphasizes the significance of civic engagement. By discussing the functions of local government, the author encourages readers to take ownership of their communities and actively participate in decision-making processes. Dunn's emphasis on the importance of rural civic life is particularly timely, as rural communities face unique challenges in the modern era.

Additionally, Dunn delves into the economic dynamics of rural life, shedding light on the core industries that sustain these communities. He delves into the intricacies of agricultural practices, exploring the challenges faced by farmers and the impact of technological advancements. Dunn also provides a nuanced understanding of the economic interconnectedness between rural and urban areas, debunking the myth of isolation that often surrounds rural communities.

However, it is important to note that since this book was published almost a century ago, some of the information and data presented may be outdated. Consequently, readers should approach certain sections with caution, especially those that discuss specific policies or technological advancements.

Overall, Community Civics and Rural Life remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the unique dynamics of rural communities and their social, economic, and political challenges. Arthur William Dunn's thoughtful analysis and emphasis on citizen engagement and local governance make this book a significant contribution to the study of rural life. Although rooted in a specific time period, its overarching themes and insights are still highly relevant in today's world.

First Page:

This book, like the author's earlier one, The Community and the Citizen, is a "community civics" text. Two purposes led to the preparation of this second volume. The first was to produce a text that would meet the needs of pupils and teachers who live outside of the environment of the large city. Training for citizenship in a democracy is a fundamentally identical process in all communities, whether urban or rural. But, if it really functions in the life of the citizen, this process must consist largely in deriving educational values from the actual civic situations in which he normally finds himself. Moreover, instruction that relates to matters that lie beyond immediate experience must nevertheless be interpreted in terms of that experience if it is really to have meaning. At least half of the young citizens of America live in an environment that is essentially rural. Hence their need for civics instruction that takes its point of departure in, and refers back to, a body of experience that differs in many ways from that of the urban citizen... Continue reading book >>