Today: Rurality and Culture

1. Today: Rurality and Culture Elements of culture Theoretical perspectives on culture Understanding cultural change and cultural variation Why cultural “capital” Elements of rural culture

2. Summing up last time: You now have a basic toolkit for conducting your own social science research, and critically evaluating the findings of others. You should know: The steps of the scientific method and hw they work The advantages and disadvantages of different types of research methods The difference between reliability and validity The advantages and disadvantages of different types of sampling strategies

3. Culture and Society Society Constituted of a number of people Live in the same territory Exists relatively independently of other societies Participate in a (relatively) common culture Culture Learned, socially transmitted customs, knowledge, material objects and behavior Today we’ll be moving away from methods dealing with Culture, Socialization, and Community—”the rural way of life” Society What is society: Society is the largest form of human group (nations, regions) Usually has a territorial component—you don’t really have virtual societies on the internet, or societies of common interest. (THIS TERRITORY CAN BE REAL SMALL, OR REAL BIG) Can exist independently of other societies: although globalization (which we’ll talk about) has made us more dependent on each other. Share common heritage (sometimes) and culture Culture Includes ideas, values, customs and artifacts of groups of people Each people has a distinctive culture which includes language, music, art, family structure, norms, beliefs is learned and transmitted from one generation to the next through socialization MAY have a spatial component, but not necessarily adjacent We’ll be talking today about rural culture: does it exist, how would we know, how does it matter? Today we’ll be moving away from methods dealing with Culture, Socialization, and Community—”the rural way of life” Society What is society: Society is the largest form of human group (nations, regions) Usually has a territorial component—you don’t really have virtual societies on the internet, or societies of common interest. (THIS TERRITORY CAN BE REAL SMALL, OR REAL BIG) Can exist independently of other societies: although globalization (which we’ll talk about) has made us more dependent on each other. Share common heritage (sometimes) and culture Culture Includes ideas, values, customs and artifacts of groups of people Each people has a distinctive culture which includes language, music, art, family structure, norms, beliefs is learned and transmitted from one generation to the next through socialization MAY have a spatial component, but not necessarily adjacent We’ll be talking today about rural culture: does it exist, how would we know, how does it matter?

4. Material vs. Nonmaterial Culture Material Culture – physical or technological aspects of daily lives Nonmaterial Culture – ways of using material objects, customs, beliefs, governments, patterns of communication Cultural Lag – period of maladjustment when the nonmaterial culture is still adapting to new material conditions Broadly speaking, there are two types of cultural artifacts: (1) Material Culture our “stuff” ex. Food, houses, clothes, our transportation. (2) Nonmaterial culture: our ideas, our values, our stories, our customs and patterns of behavior. more resistant to change than material culture Easier for people to change the types of clothes they wear, than to adopt a custom of not wearing clothes. Or adopt new technologies, but fold them into existing ways of doing things. Common to visit ‘isolated people and see them wearing western style clothing—Chicago Bulls caps in New Guinea. Often, people are disappointed that they are not encountering an “authentic” culture, but their nonmaterial culture may be unchanged, just their “stuff”. Cultural Lag a period when there is new material culture, (new stuff, better tools, but the nonmaterial culture (custome, etc) havent caught up as yet). One example—there is evidence that increased effectiveness of hunting with the introduction of firearms to some groups of native americans may have contributed to local declines in some wildlife populations. This is easy to understand—if your culture has developed around scarcity, and new tools are introduced that remove this scarcity, it takes the culture longer to shift, to realize that some of the limitations no longer exist. Broadly speaking, there are two types of cultural artifacts: (1) Material Culture our “stuff” ex. Food, houses, clothes, our transportation. (2) Nonmaterial culture: our ideas, our values, our stories, our customs and patterns of behavior. more resistant to change than material culture Easier for people to change the types of clothes they wear, than to adopt a custom of not wearing clothes. Or adopt new technologies, but fold them into existing ways of doing things. Common to visit ‘isolated people and see them wearing western style clothing—Chicago Bulls caps in New Guinea. Often, people are disappointed that they are not encountering an “authentic” culture, but their nonmaterial culture may be unchanged, just their “stuff”. Cultural Lag a period when there is new material culture, (new stuff, better tools, but the nonmaterial culture (custome, etc) havent caught up as yet). One example—there is evidence that increased effectiveness of hunting with the introduction of firearms to some groups of native americans may have contributed to local declines in some wildlife populations. This is easy to understand—if your culture has developed around scarcity, and new tools are introduced that remove this scarcity, it takes the culture longer to shift, to realize that some of the limitations no longer exist.

5. Elements of Culture Language Abstract system of word meanings and symbols Foundation of every culture Permeates all parts of society A Cultural Universal: practices and beliefs common to most societies Other examples? Some fundamental components of culture. Language is the foundation of every culture, permeating all aspects of society. Abstact symbols that help foster communication and help to define the reality of the culture (and this does not just mean the english language itself). speacialized symbols that are culturally (or subculturally) specific. We all know what a DVD is without having to explain it. 10 years ago this term didn’t even exist. (the more specialized, the more we are probably talking about subcultures, which we’ll get to later today) in this sense, language is POWER—you can use it to include or exclude certain people Language is also a cultural universal as all societies use some form of language, even if it isn’t a spoken or written language. Other examples? Some form of childrearing, some ethical code of conduct (even if the specifics differ). Some fundamental components of culture. Language is the foundation of every culture, permeating all aspects of society. Abstact symbols that help foster communication and help to define the reality of the culture (and this does not just mean the english language itself). speacialized symbols that are culturally (or subculturally) specific. We all know what a DVD is without having to explain it. 10 years ago this term didn’t even exist. (the more specialized, the more we are probably talking about subcultures, which we’ll get to later today) in this sense, language is POWER—you can use it to include or exclude certain people Language is also a cultural universal as all societies use some form of language, even if it isn’t a spoken or written language. Other examples? Some form of childrearing, some ethical code of conduct (even if the specifics differ).

6. Elements of Culture Norms (about behavior) Established standards of behavior maintained by society Formal norms – written down and enforced Informal norms – understood by not precisely recorded Mores – highly necessary to the welfare of a society Folkways – govern everyday behavior Norms are established standards of behavior for getting along in a society (has to be widely recognized and understood). Formal Norms In U.S. formal norms are often formalized into laws, carry punishments for violating. Other exs. – grade requirements; rules of football games. Informal Norms Ex. Standards of proper dress Norms are classified by their relative importance of society Mores – each society demands obedience to its mores Ex. – mores against murder, treason, child abuse Violation of mores can lead to severe penalties Society is much less likely to formalize folkways—customs. Also some “formal” norms are very weakly enforced—music piracy is a good example, and so is taping movies off HBO, etc. Norms are defined situationally: the rules of sport are an interesting example: any ice hockey fans? When you live in Canada, you become one. A few years ago, Marty McSorely swung his stick and knocked out Donald Brashears. Within the situation of hockey, this is bad. You go to the penalty box and get fined. Probably suspended. But this case was unique in that he was actually tried for CRIMINAL assult—which is what would happen if you tried this stunt on the street. Here was a violation of a norm severe enough that they said “hey, we’re not just talking about hockey anymore”. This made hockey players VERY unhappy, imposing a new set of rules / situations. What are some other examples of norms? Norms are established standards of behavior for getting along in a society (has to be widely recognized and understood). Formal Norms In U.S. formal norms are often formalized into laws, carry punishments for violating. Other exs. – grade requirements; rules of football games. Informal Norms Ex. Standards of proper dress Norms are classified by their relative importance of society Mores – each society demands obedience to its mores Ex. – mores against murder, treason, child abuse Violation of mores can lead to severe penalties Society is much less likely to formalize folkways—customs. Also some “formal” norms are very weakly enforced—music piracy is a good example, and so is taping movies off HBO, etc. Norms are defined situationally: the rules of sport are an interesting example: any ice hockey fans? When you live in Canada, you become one. A few years ago, Marty McSorely swung his stick and knocked out Donald Brashears. Within the situation of hockey, this is bad. You go to the penalty box and get fined. Probably suspended. But this case was unique in that he was actually tried for CRIMINAL assult—which is what would happen if you tried this stunt on the street. Here was a violation of a norm severe enough that they said “hey, we’re not just talking about hockey anymore”. This made hockey players VERY unhappy, imposing a new set of rules / situations. What are some other examples of norms?

7. Elements of Culture Sanctions Penalties and rewards for conduct concerning a social norm Positive Sanctions Negative Sanctions Related then, are consequesnces for behavior. These can be both rewards for appropriate behavior or punishments for inappropriate behavior And again, these can be either formal or informal. Positive Sanctions (rewards)– pay raise, awards (formal), or thank you’s, friendships, etc (informal) Negative Sanctions – fines, threats, imprisonment (formal). Social exclusion (i.e., not getting invited to a party) for violating informal norms (and I wont go into what behaviors these might be) Usually the strength of the sanction (positive or negative; formal or informal) is associated with how important the norm is. Although there can be a mismatch between the formal and informal norm: the speed limit on the interstate is 65mph, but in many places the informal norm is more like 70-75. and we do not expect to be formally punished for going 66mph. And we probably woudnt be. Related then, are consequesnces for behavior. These can be both rewards for appropriate behavior or punishments for inappropriate behavior And again, these can be either formal or informal. Positive Sanctions (rewards)– pay raise, awards (formal), or thank you’s, friendships, etc (informal) Negative Sanctions – fines, threats, imprisonment (formal). Social exclusion (i.e., not getting invited to a party) for violating informal norms (and I wont go into what behaviors these might be) Usually the strength of the sanction (positive or negative; formal or informal) is associated with how important the norm is. Although there can be a mismatch between the formal and informal norm: the speed limit on the interstate is 65mph, but in many places the informal norm is more like 70-75. and we do not expect to be formally punished for going 66mph. And we probably woudnt be.

8. Elements of Culture Values Collective conceptions of good vs. bad, proper vs. improper, morally right vs. wrong Values are collective conceptions of what is good/bad. Important that these are COLLECTIVE, not just “a matter of opinion” held by one person, etc, but there is These are fairly broad: not necessarily tied to any specific situation, but apply to multiple situations. EXAMPLES OF VALUES? Values influence people’s behavior and serve as criteria for evaluating the actions of others (really serve as the basis for norms—these rules for behavior are based on values. There is often a direct relationship between values, norms, and sanctions (What would be an example of this relationship?) Equality—don’t discriminate—penalty for doing this. Justice—get a fair trial-- Values may change, but usually slowly: remain relatively stable during any one person’s lifetime Values are collective conceptions of what is good/bad. Important that these are COLLECTIVE, not just “a matter of opinion” held by one person, etc, but there is These are fairly broad: not necessarily tied to any specific situation, but apply to multiple situations. EXAMPLES OF VALUES? Values influence people’s behavior and serve as criteria for evaluating the actions of others (really serve as the basis for norms—these rules for behavior are based on values. There is often a direct relationship between values, norms, and sanctions (What would be an example of this relationship?) Equality—don’t discriminate—penalty for doing this. Justice—get a fair trial-- Values may change, but usually slowly: remain relatively stable during any one person’s lifetime

9. Theoretical Perspectives Functionalist Perspective Cultural ‘competency’ helps an individual function well in society. Social stability requires consensus. Socialization into expected standards of behavior. All cultures are legitimate: recognize cultural uniqueness. Can this actually be dysfunctional? Functionalist and Conflict Theorists agree that culture and society are in harmony with each other Functionalists maintain that stability requires a consensus and the support of a societies members. Cultural “competency” is important for the individual to succeed in society—one who has little knowledge of the culture (the language, customs, etc) is unlikely to do very well. We are therefore socialized (taught) how to ‘get along’ in society—both informally and formally. (we’ll talk more about agents of socialization next week, I think). Suggests that each culture is legitimate: uniqueness is also functional (fulfill certain roles). But, can what is functionalism be dysfunctional: what works to help you succeed in a certain culture may not work in other situations should you have to ‘switch societies’ (i.e., move to a different country if you are in the military). Also, an entire culture or subculture may be dysfunctional in the larger society. Going back to the ‘culture of poverty’ that Dr Jensen spoke of last week, If the norm is helplessness and lack of intiative, someone who goes along with that will succeed within the culture, but not outside. Similarly, one who goes against that may get negative sanctions (uppity, think you’re better than us), but be positioned well to succeeed in broader society. Functionalist and Conflict Theorists agree that culture and society are in harmony with each other Functionalists maintain that stability requires a consensus and the support of a societies members. Cultural “competency” is important for the individual to succeed in society—one who has little knowledge of the culture (the language, customs, etc) is unlikely to do very well. We are therefore socialized (taught) how to ‘get along’ in society—both informally and formally. (we’ll talk more about agents of socialization next week, I think). Suggests that each culture is legitimate: uniqueness is also functional (fulfill certain roles). But, can what is functionalism be dysfunctional: what works to help you succeed in a certain culture may not work in other situations should you have to ‘switch societies’ (i.e., move to a different country if you are in the military). Also, an entire culture or subculture may be dysfunctional in the larger society. Going back to the ‘culture of poverty’ that Dr Jensen spoke of last week, If the norm is helplessness and lack of intiative, someone who goes along with that will succeed within the culture, but not outside. Similarly, one who goes against that may get negative sanctions (uppity, think you’re better than us), but be positioned well to succeeed in broader society.

10. Theoretical Perspectives Conflict Perspective The role of power in defining what is mainstream, and what is deviant: whose interests are supported? Dominant Ideology – set of cultural beliefs and practices that help maintain powerful social, economic, and political interests US: individual achievement, self reliance, rather than cooperative behavior support Capitalism Whereas conflict theorists argue that a common culture may exist, but it serves to maintain the privileges of certain groups The role of power is key to maintaining certain priveliges of certain cultures. Dominant Ideology Dominant groups control the means of producing beliefs about reality through religion, education, and the media (really important sources of cultural socialization) What would be an example of dominant ideology in this country, especially that reinforces existing power relationships. CLASS THOUGHTS??? (Women’s inferiority to men) Racial differences in ability Individual hard work results in individual success Reinforces the structure of capitalism as competition (winner take all) rather than cooperation Whereas conflict theorists argue that a common culture may exist, but it serves to maintain the privileges of certain groups The role of power is key to maintaining certain priveliges of certain cultures. Dominant Ideology Dominant groups control the means of producing beliefs about reality through religion, education, and the media (really important sources of cultural socialization) What would be an example of dominant ideology in this country, especially that reinforces existing power relationships. CLASS THOUGHTS??? (Women’s inferiority to men) Racial differences in ability Individual hard work results in individual success Reinforces the structure of capitalism as competition (winner take all) rather than cooperation

11. Theoretical Perspectives Symbolic interactionist Culture is a set of shared symbols (language, practices) that reflect basic values and have been: Constructed though social interaction Agreed-upon by members of the culture May be difficult to understand by non-members and can be used to define cultural boundaries Finally, the interactionist perspective— From this standpoint, culture is a set of shared symbols (such as language) that has been created through social interaction, negotiated by members of the culture. The created symbols (such as language) may be used to include/exclude certain segments of society. We’ve already talked about the ability to exclude from certain cultures or subcultures based on specialized language. This relates to power and conflict as well: can be an important maintaining social hierarchy. Understanding the meanings without having to have them explained means youre in.. If I told diane that my rainbow file was going to be looked at by P and T, she would know exactly what I was talking about. Do you? Hmm…guess you’ll never become tenured professors at PSU. Finally, the interactionist perspective— From this standpoint, culture is a set of shared symbols (such as language) that has been created through social interaction, negotiated by members of the culture. The created symbols (such as language) may be used to include/exclude certain segments of society. We’ve already talked about the ability to exclude from certain cultures or subcultures based on specialized language. This relates to power and conflict as well: can be an important maintaining social hierarchy. Understanding the meanings without having to have them explained means youre in.. If I told diane that my rainbow file was going to be looked at by P and T, she would know exactly what I was talking about. Do you? Hmm…guess you’ll never become tenured professors at PSU.

12. Cultural Variation Subculture – segment of society that shares a distinctive pattern of mores, folkways, and values different from the larger society. Sometimes associated with deviance. Counter Culture – subculture that conspicuously and deliberately opposes certain aspects of the larger culture Culture Shock – feeling of disorientation, uncertainty, or fear when immersed in an unfamiliar culture Cultural Variation Each culture has a unique character Cultures also adapt to meet specific sets of circumstances Even within a single nation, certain segments of the population develop cultural patterns that differ from those of the dominant society (I just gave an example of this with the specialized language of faculty here). These are Subcultures Culture within a culture Develop in a number of ways – based on common age, region, ethnicity, occupation What are some common subcultures that we see in this country? What about on campus? EXAMPLES (race/ethnic, athletic) SOMETIMES but not always associated with what is labeled as deviant behavior by the mainstream culture: EXAMPLES??? Homosexuals, certain religious groups, Counter Cultures—similar in some ways, but deliberately trying to reform society. (can be either from the right or left): right wing militia groups that don’t recognize the federal government, or socialist protestors (don’t want you to get the idea that counter cultures are all on one side or another) Culture Shock feeling of disorientation, uncertainty, or fear when immersed in an unfamiliar culture (many things you take for granted as just “normal” aren’t necessarily standard at all.Cultural Variation Each culture has a unique character Cultures also adapt to meet specific sets of circumstances Even within a single nation, certain segments of the population develop cultural patterns that differ from those of the dominant society (I just gave an example of this with the specialized language of faculty here). These are Subcultures Culture within a culture Develop in a number of ways – based on common age, region, ethnicity, occupation What are some common subcultures that we see in this country? What about on campus? EXAMPLES (race/ethnic, athletic) SOMETIMES but not always associated with what is labeled as deviant behavior by the mainstream culture: EXAMPLES??? Homosexuals, certain religious groups, Counter Cultures—similar in some ways, but deliberately trying to reform society. (can be either from the right or left): right wing militia groups that don’t recognize the federal government, or socialist protestors (don’t want you to get the idea that counter cultures are all on one side or another) Culture Shock feeling of disorientation, uncertainty, or fear when immersed in an unfamiliar culture (many things you take for granted as just “normal” aren’t necessarily standard at all.

13. Attitudes Toward Cultural Variation Ethnocentrism – perceive one’s culture and way of life as the norm or superior Functionalist vs. Conflict Perspective Cultural Relativism – view people’s behavior from the perspective of one’s own culture Xenocentrism – belief that the products, styles, or ideas of one’s society are inferior Ethnocentrism perceive one’s culture and way of life as the norm or superior (which in some ways is quite close to a cultural universal)—in between innings of the Sox game (go Sox) last night I was checking out a Ken Burns special on the west. Virtually all indian people’s labels for their own culture translate to “the people” (with all other tribes being ‘the others’).., the point is that we see the world from the perspective of our own culture as the ceter. Conflict theorists argue that ethnocentric value judgments serve to devalue groups and deny equal opportunities. Can also lead to stereotypes and prejudice Functionalists argue that ethnocentrism serves to maintain a sense of solidarity by promoting group pride and reinforcing And what’s the point of HAVING values if you don’t use them Cultural Relativism Places priority on understanding other cultures from the perspective of your own. How does a cultural practice function within the society. but it does not (as commonly misunderstood) mean accepting the cultural practices—this does not mean having to say that anything that a culture does is ok Xenocentrism A kind of reverse ethnocentrism Exs. Include the belief that foreign cars are superior, or (among some foreign cultures) that anything American is automatically better.Ethnocentrism perceive one’s culture and way of life as the norm or superior (which in some ways is quite close to a cultural universal)—in between innings of the Sox game (go Sox) last night I was checking out a Ken Burns special on the west. Virtually all indian people’s labels for their own culture translate to “the people” (with all other tribes being ‘the others’).., the point is that we see the world from the perspective of our own culture as the ceter. Conflict theorists argue that ethnocentric value judgments serve to devalue groups and deny equal opportunities. Can also lead to stereotypes and prejudice Functionalists argue that ethnocentrism serves to maintain a sense of solidarity by promoting group pride and reinforcing And what’s the point of HAVING values if you don’t use them Cultural Relativism Places priority on understanding other cultures from the perspective of your own. How does a cultural practice function within the society. but it does not (as commonly misunderstood) mean accepting the cultural practices—this does not mean having to say that anything that a culture does is ok Xenocentrism A kind of reverse ethnocentrism Exs. Include the belief that foreign cars are superior, or (among some foreign cultures) that anything American is automatically better.

14. Cultural Change Innovation – process of introducing a new idea or object to culture Discovery – making known or sharing the existence of an aspect of reality Invention – existing cultural items are combined into a form that did not previously exist Diffusion – process by which a cultural item is spread from group to group Technology, communication Innovation – process of introducing a new idea or object to culture Discovery – making known or sharing the existence of an aspect of reality (something that was already there) EXAMPLES Invention – existing cultural items are combined into a form that did not previously exist EXAMPLES Diffusion how are cultural items spread from group to group Can occur via exploration, military conquest, mass media, tourism We live in a global world—we’ll talk about globalization and its impacts more specifically in a few weeks. Ex. Breakfast cereals comes originally from Germany; candy from the Netherlands Nations tend to feel a loss of identify when they accept cultures from the outside Many societies try to protect themselves from the invasion of too much culture from other countries. Canada, where Iived for a couple of years, there is great resistance to having too much of their popular culture be US stuff. And in french Quebec, there are formal laws that regulate the use of english on signs (i.e., if you have a store, the name MUST be in French first). Trying to protect their cultural uniqueness. Technology has increased the speed by which aspects of culture are shared Has also broadened the distribution of cultural elementsInnovation – process of introducing a new idea or object to culture Discovery – making known or sharing the existence of an aspect of reality (something that was already there) EXAMPLES Invention – existing cultural items are combined into a form that did not previously exist EXAMPLES Diffusion how are cultural items spread from group to group Can occur via exploration, military conquest, mass media, tourism We live in a global world—we’ll talk about globalization and its impacts more specifically in a few weeks. Ex. Breakfast cereals comes originally from Germany; candy from the Netherlands Nations tend to feel a loss of identify when they accept cultures from the outside Many societies try to protect themselves from the invasion of too much culture from other countries. Canada, where Iived for a couple of years, there is great resistance to having too much of their popular culture be US stuff. And in french Quebec, there are formal laws that regulate the use of english on signs (i.e., if you have a store, the name MUST be in French first). Trying to protect their cultural uniqueness. Technology has increased the speed by which aspects of culture are shared Has also broadened the distribution of cultural elements

15. Thinking about cultural change / variation: Theory perspectives: Functional: differences fill specialized roles, can exist within. Change is adaptive. Conflict: differences due to power imbalances or struggles. Change represents challenges to the status quo. Interactionist: new cultural forms are shaped through social interaction or agreement How do the theoretical perspectives understand cultural change? Functional: differences fill specialized roles, can exist within. Change CAN BE adaptive. Change is a function of the distribution of (for example) new members of society—the culture must adapt to continue to function smoothly (although cultural change is sometimes a struggle, it is hoped that a new equilibrium will be reached). Conflict: differences due to power imbalances or struggles. Change represents challenges to the status quo, a struggle for the redistribution of power. Interactionist: new cultural forms are shaped through social interaction/agreement For example, the proposal to make the US officially a bilingual nation may be adaptive (from the functionalist perspecive, as an increasing proportion of our pop every year speaks mostly spanish), but from a conflict perspective, this is threatening to the exsting distribution of power and prestige, and would represent a real power shift. When might we think that a culture has changed so much that it really doesn’t exist anymore? How much change is allowable? We often run into this question when thinking of primitive cultures that have been ruined or eliminated by contact with the outside, but we’ll talk about it in the context of rural US culture as well. How do the theoretical perspectives understand cultural change? Functional: differences fill specialized roles, can exist within. Change CAN BE adaptive. Change is a function of the distribution of (for example) new members of society—the culture must adapt to continue to function smoothly (although cultural change is sometimes a struggle, it is hoped that a new equilibrium will be reached). Conflict: differences due to power imbalances or struggles. Change represents challenges to the status quo, a struggle for the redistribution of power. Interactionist: new cultural forms are shaped through social interaction/agreement For example, the proposal to make the US officially a bilingual nation may be adaptive (from the functionalist perspecive, as an increasing proportion of our pop every year speaks mostly spanish), but from a conflict perspective, this is threatening to the exsting distribution of power and prestige, and would represent a real power shift. When might we think that a culture has changed so much that it really doesn’t exist anymore? How much change is allowable? We often run into this question when thinking of primitive cultures that have been ruined or eliminated by contact with the outside, but we’ll talk about it in the context of rural US culture as well.

16. Thinking about rural culture Is there a “rural culture” in the US and what might it look like? Should we care about it? What might the different theoretical perspectives have to say about it? How might we recognize and measure it? Change versus stability in rural places / people In thinking about the rural US Is there a rural culture in the US? What might the different theoretical perspectives have to say about it? Change versus stability in rural places / people How might we recognize and measure it—what are its elements? Should we care about it—why would it matter? In thinking about the rural US Is there a rural culture in the US? What might the different theoretical perspectives have to say about it? Change versus stability in rural places / people How might we recognize and measure it—what are its elements? Should we care about it—why would it matter?

17. Elements of a rural culture: Specialized language Unique values (ideas of right and wrong) Unique norms (standards of behavior) Material culture products I want to do a quick in-class exercise to see what you guys think of rural culture. Here are 4 elements: language, values, norms, material culture products (stuff). Those who grew up mostly in rural areas raise your hands. Find a partner from an urban area. Get together for 5-10 minutes and come up with 2 examples for each of these 4 categories. Things that are uniquely rural. Put these on a sheet of paper with both of your names on it (hand it in at the end of class). We’ll talk about what you found I want to do a quick in-class exercise to see what you guys think of rural culture. Here are 4 elements: language, values, norms, material culture products (stuff). Those who grew up mostly in rural areas raise your hands. Find a partner from an urban area. Get together for 5-10 minutes and come up with 2 examples for each of these 4 categories. Things that are uniquely rural. Put these on a sheet of paper with both of your names on it (hand it in at the end of class). We’ll talk about what you found

18. Theoretical perspectives Functionalist How does rural culture keep things running smoothly for the culture and for society as a whole (filling roles) Conflict How are stereotypes of rural people and environments used to reinforce existing power structures and distribution of resources Symbolic Interactionist: How is rural culture ‘created’ within the culture and in larger society through interactional patterns Theoretical perspectives on rural culture: Functionalist How does rural culture keep things running smoothly for the broader culture and for society as a whole (filling roles). What does rural life provide? EXAMPLES (food, open space for recreation, but also an “away” for the disposal of waste).. Conflict How are stereotypes of rural people and environments used to reinforce existing power structures and distribution of resources (what are these stereotypes). Will rural people and places have more or less power in society in the future? Symbolic Interactionist: How is rural culture ‘created’ within the culture and in larger society through interactional patterns? How much agency do rural people have in defining and creating their own culture. Theoretical perspectives on rural culture: Functionalist How does rural culture keep things running smoothly for the broader culture and for society as a whole (filling roles). What does rural life provide? EXAMPLES (food, open space for recreation, but also an “away” for the disposal of waste).. Conflict How are stereotypes of rural people and environments used to reinforce existing power structures and distribution of resources (what are these stereotypes). Will rural people and places have more or less power in society in the future? Symbolic Interactionist: How is rural culture ‘created’ within the culture and in larger society through interactional patterns? How much agency do rural people have in defining and creating their own culture.

19. How might we recognize and measure rural culture? Prevalence of certain practices / interactional forms Typical behaviors, attitudes, values has been suggested that we define rural this way at least partially But: would it vary by Region? Race? Gender? Who would count as ‘real rural’? What IS rural culture? Prevalence of certain practices / interactional forms Typical behaviors, attitudes, values has been suggested that we define rural this way at least partially, rather than strictly population density (the feeling being that there are places that may be rural according to population density criteria, but have lost their rural culture and shouldn’t count as ‘real rural’). But: Who would count as ‘real rural’? What practices? What values? THERE IS NO RIGHT ANSWER TO THIS, BUT SOMETHING THAT RURAL PLACES STRUGGLE WITH AS THEY ADAPT TO CHANGE? should we define what is typically rural according to whatever happens in places of low population density? Or is there a core rural culture that we can watch change or evolve over time. Would this culture vary by Region? Race? Gender? What IS rural culture? Prevalence of certain practices / interactional forms Typical behaviors, attitudes, values has been suggested that we define rural this way at least partially, rather than strictly population density (the feeling being that there are places that may be rural according to population density criteria, but have lost their rural culture and shouldn’t count as ‘real rural’). But: Who would count as ‘real rural’? What practices? What values? THERE IS NO RIGHT ANSWER TO THIS, BUT SOMETHING THAT RURAL PLACES STRUGGLE WITH AS THEY ADAPT TO CHANGE? should we define what is typically rural according to whatever happens in places of low population density? Or is there a core rural culture that we can watch change or evolve over time. Would this culture vary by Region? Race? Gender?

20. Do rural / urban values and behaviors differ? Behaviors: examples? Attitudes More politically conservative? Rural less supportive of env movement ? Rural more utilitarian values toward nature? Rural less concerned about environmental quality? BUT: what about cause-effect relationship control variables? Thinking about nonmaterial culture: rur/urb diffs in Behaviors: rural more likely to hunt, to be supportive of hunting (attitudes and behavior) Environmental attitudes Rural less supportive of env movement Rural more utilitarian values toward nature Rural less concerned about environmental quality overall BUT: what about cause-effect relationship: what causes what? If someone moves from an urban to a rural area will their attitudes toward hunting change? Will they immediately reject their urban upbringings and become ‘just like other rural folk’ (probably not: socialization growing up is pretty powerful). control variables: (EVERYONE REMEMBER WHAT THESE ARE?) interestingly, many of the rural/urban differences go away when controlling for occupation: those who have occupations that make use of natural resources (logging, mining, AND AGRICULTURE) have different attitudes than other rural people. Among rural people who don’t have these occupations, there are very few differences from urban people. Thinking about nonmaterial culture: rur/urb diffs in Behaviors: rural more likely to hunt, to be supportive of hunting (attitudes and behavior) Environmental attitudes Rural less supportive of env movement Rural more utilitarian values toward nature Rural less concerned about environmental quality overall BUT: what about cause-effect relationship: what causes what? If someone moves from an urban to a rural area will their attitudes toward hunting change? Will they immediately reject their urban upbringings and become ‘just like other rural folk’ (probably not: socialization growing up is pretty powerful). control variables: (EVERYONE REMEMBER WHAT THESE ARE?) interestingly, many of the rural/urban differences go away when controlling for occupation: those who have occupations that make use of natural resources (logging, mining, AND AGRICULTURE) have different attitudes than other rural people. Among rural people who don’t have these occupations, there are very few differences from urban people.

21. How do we define “real rural” Official definitions of rural places are based on population / density Other choices: cultural practices, occupations These may or may not have little to do with each other: people versus places as ‘rural’ How much change are we willing to accept So, identifying a “real rural” culture is difficult Official definitions of rural places are based on population / density Other choices: cultural practices, occupations (Rurality includes all 3): places that are “most rural” have low population density, historically characteristic occupations (mostly ag or resource based), and cultural practices (ideals of small town living—face to face social interaction, high degree of neighboring). These may or may not have little to do with each other: (although historically they did in the past) people versus places as ‘rural’: do certain individuals have charactersics that make them ‘still rural’ or are we concerned more with the characteristics of locations—communities, counties, etc. How much change are we willing to accept as a ‘normal’ part of rural culture—when a high amenity place (i.e., the Poconos) becomes populated by people commuting to NYC (which is happening more and more), do we say rural culture is changing or rural culture has been lost? So, identifying a “real rural” culture is difficult Official definitions of rural places are based on population / density Other choices: cultural practices, occupations (Rurality includes all 3): places that are “most rural” have low population density, historically characteristic occupations (mostly ag or resource based), and cultural practices (ideals of small town living—face to face social interaction, high degree of neighboring). These may or may not have little to do with each other: (although historically they did in the past) people versus places as ‘rural’: do certain individuals have charactersics that make them ‘still rural’ or are we concerned more with the characteristics of locations—communities, counties, etc. How much change are we willing to accept as a ‘normal’ part of rural culture—when a high amenity place (i.e., the Poconos) becomes populated by people commuting to NYC (which is happening more and more), do we say rural culture is changing or rural culture has been lost?

22. Rural cultural change: Links to urban areas, outside world Exchange of goods / resources Exchange of ideas (non material culture) New people physically present New types of employment May be seen as a threat to tradition May be seen as an opportunity to innovate Therefore, rural cultural change, Links to urban areas, outside world—rural areas are not isolated economically or materially or (increasingly) culturally from mainstream US culture. Exchange of goods / resources (participating in global markets)—even within Ag, inputs (fertilizers and pesticides) are not locally developed, but instead by big multinational companies. Lord knows where tractors come from, they are global products. Local production is also tied to ‘outside’: very little food produced is distributed locally, but is also tied to international capitalism: the price for corn is tied to our foreign policy, balance of trade, tarrifs, etc. Exchange of ideas (non material culture): better transportation, communication (especially mass media) New people physically present: inmigration, especially in desirable places to live. New types of employment—the stockbroker living in the mountains of CO who telecommutes: not a traditional rural occupation, but in areas like that it may become more the norm than ag or forestry. May be seen as a threat to tradition OR May be seen as an opportunity to innovateTherefore, rural cultural change, Links to urban areas, outside world—rural areas are not isolated economically or materially or (increasingly) culturally from mainstream US culture. Exchange of goods / resources (participating in global markets)—even within Ag, inputs (fertilizers and pesticides) are not locally developed, but instead by big multinational companies. Lord knows where tractors come from, they are global products. Local production is also tied to ‘outside’: very little food produced is distributed locally, but is also tied to international capitalism: the price for corn is tied to our foreign policy, balance of trade, tarrifs, etc. Exchange of ideas (non material culture): better transportation, communication (especially mass media) New people physically present: inmigration, especially in desirable places to live. New types of employment—the stockbroker living in the mountains of CO who telecommutes: not a traditional rural occupation, but in areas like that it may become more the norm than ag or forestry. May be seen as a threat to tradition OR May be seen as an opportunity to innovate

23. “The small town death wish” An example of negative aspects of rural culture: Resistance to change, new ideas Tendency to look back, not forward Resistance to outsiders more generally Lack of recognition of dependence on ‘outside’ world or larger social forces that affect well being Poor community self image Lack of cooperation for the common good An example of negative aspects of rural culture (resistance to cultural change) the Small Town Death Wish. Could be subtitled ‘why small towns fail’ Talks about the great plains, but much is applicable to rural places more generally Resistance to change, new ideas (“that’s not the way we do things around here”) Tendency to look back, not forward: how things used to be. Resistance to outsiders more generally (ain’t from around here, are you, stranger?)—newcomers can have a very difficult time fitting in, especially if they don’t fit the mold of traditional rural people. Lack of recognition of dependence on ‘outside’ world or larger social forces that affect well being (a feeling that the community is a self contained unit that can pull itself up) Poor community self image—why would anyone good WANT to stay here? Lack of cooperation for the common good—competition is the dominant model—if a main street bizz or farm goes out, it is seen that they did something wrong and it is an opportunity for An example of negative aspects of rural culture (resistance to cultural change) the Small Town Death Wish. Could be subtitled ‘why small towns fail’ Talks about the great plains, but much is applicable to rural places more generally Resistance to change, new ideas (“that’s not the way we do things around here”) Tendency to look back, not forward: how things used to be. Resistance to outsiders more generally (ain’t from around here, are you, stranger?)—newcomers can have a very difficult time fitting in, especially if they don’t fit the mold of traditional rural people. Lack of recognition of dependence on ‘outside’ world or larger social forces that affect well being (a feeling that the community is a self contained unit that can pull itself up) Poor community self image—why would anyone good WANT to stay here? Lack of cooperation for the common good—competition is the dominant model—if a main street bizz or farm goes out, it is seen that they did something wrong and it is an opportunity for

24. The Small Town Death Wish, Cont. Functional within, but dysfunctional in a changing world (can’t view cultures in isolation) Community stagnation / decline Out-migration of best and brightest Alienation of those who would help Mediocrity and “dumbing down” The response: “emotion, rather than reason” “prairie society does not belong to those who can come and go” Functional within, but dysfunctional in a changing world (can’t view cultures in isolation) Community stagnation / decline Out-migration of best and brightest Alienation of those who would help Mediocrity and “dumbing down” The response: “emotion, rather than reason” “prairie society does not belong to those who can come and go” Functional within, but dysfunctional in a changing world (can’t view cultures in isolation) Community stagnation / decline Out-migration of best and brightest Alienation of those who would help Mediocrity and “dumbing down” The response: “emotion, rather than reason” “prairie society does not belong to those who can come and go”

25. How do we think about cultural “capital” Remember our definitions of Capital—resources that can be invested to create other resources/profit Theoretical perspectives on cultural capital Functionalist: knowing how to behave “profits” the person in his/her context (note the dysfunctionality of small town death wish) Conflict: cultural capital can be used to maintain inequality / class differences Interactionist: how is what counts as cultural capital socially agreed on, and what are the rules that govern this?

26. What about Legacy? We inherit cultural capital (values, attitudes, norms, materials) from… Family Other institutions This inheritance is shaped by our personal characteristics: Gender, race, ethnicity, class, place

27. Next time Continue to talk about socialization to rural life and the institutions that foster it. Readings Re-skim Flora and Flora Ch. 2 for socialization Elder, King, Conger. 1996. (on web) Recommended: Schaefer Ch 4