The Lies of the Land: Seeing Rural America for What It Is—and Isn’t

Steven Conn argues that rural America is not a thing and that we must accept that these visions don't exist and never did to build a better future. He shows that rural America has been at the center of modern American history, shaped by militarization, industrialization, corporatization, and suburbanization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A piercing and unsentimental history that boldly challenges the notion of a rural American crisis emerges in Steven Conn's insightful work, "The Lies of the Land." Conn delves deep into the complexities of rural America, revealing a narrative that defies simplistic narratives of decline or revival. Instead, he argues that we need to shift our perspective and recognize that rural America is not a monolithic entity but a diverse tapestry of communities shaped by a range of forces, including militarization, industrialization, corporatization, and suburbanization.

In his book, Conn meticulously examines each of these forces and their impact on rural America. He challenges the notion that rural communities are morally backward or repressive, pointing out that they are just as complex and diverse as urban areas. He also debunks the idea that rural America is somehow disconnected from the rest of the country, showing how it has been deeply influenced by the same trends and developments that have shaped the nation as a whole.

Conn's analysis is grounded in a wealth of historical evidence and research, drawing on a range of sources to shed light on the complex realities of rural life. He weaves together a narrative that is both informative and engaging, making it accessible to a wide audience. Through his work, Conn encourages us to dispense with the lies and half-truths we have believed about rural America and to pursue better solutions to the very real challenges shared all across our nation.

One of the key themes of "The Lies of the Land" is the importance of recognizing the diversity of rural America. Conn argues that rural communities are not homogenous and that they face a range of unique challenges, including economic stagnation, population decline, and limited access to healthcare and education. He highlights the need for policies and programs that address these challenges on a local level, recognizing the importance of community-based solutions and the role of local institutions in fostering economic growth and social well-being.

Another important aspect of Conn's work is his call for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of rural America. He argues that too often, rural communities are portrayed as victims or as backward, perpetuating stereotypes that hinder progress and perpetuate inequality. Conn encourages us to see rural America as a complex and dynamic place, full of hardworking individuals and communities that are committed to building a better future for themselves and their families.

In conclusion, Steven Conn's "The Lies of the Land" is a groundbreaking work that challenges our preconceptions about rural America. Through his insightful analysis and compelling narrative, Conn encourages us to see rural America as a complex and diverse place, shaped by a range of forces that are not always visible to the outside world. He calls for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of rural America, recognizing the importance of community-based solutions and the role of local institutions in fostering economic growth and social well-being. By embracing this new perspective, we can work together to build a better future for all Americans, regardless of where they live.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226826905