Rural America makes up 90 percent of the country but holds less than 20 percent of the population, and those numbers continue to decline. Yesterday we looked at a book putting forth the argument that cities make us better, happier and healthier. But what about the argument for living in the country?
Maria Kefalas is professor of sociology at St. Joseph’s University and author of “Hollowing Out the Middle: The Rural Brain Drain and What it Means for America.” Kefalas says that because rural America is experiencing the largest increase in immigrant populations and is on the forefront in green technology and food development, we should be investing in its revitalization.
She is joined by Chuck Suchy, a folk singer/songwriter from North Dakota, who is transitioning from traditional cattle farming to producing grass-fed beef for a niche market.
The story you just read is available to read for free because thousands of listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. Every day, the reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you: We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.
When you make a gift of $10 or more a month, we’ll invite you to a virtual behind-the-scenes tour of our newsroom to thank you for being with The World.