Module Objectives

The module offers integrated knowledge on the spatial and socioeconomic impacta of human production and consumption activities upon rural areas. Moreover, the wider economic and social relations which have an effect upon rural transformation are presented.

The role and significance of agricultural economy for rural development is analyzed. An holistic approach of agricultural activities is adopted, while environmental conservation and alternative forms of employment are taken into account. There is a critical appraisal of human activities in rural areas.

Special attention is given to the sustainable management of natural resources and to the challenges that accompany the development of human activities in rural areas. The module adopts an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach of rural areas by integrating the relevant discussions that emerged in neighbouring disciplines such as sociology, geography, agricultural economics, social anthropology, agro-ecology, etc.

Course Content

Various definitions of the ‘rural’ and the distinction between ‘rural’ and ‘urban’ space. Basic theoretical concepts aiming at the theorization of rurality (e.g. rural-urban continuum, community vs society, traditional vs modern, countryside vs city, local vs national, local vs global, etc.). Demographic and population changes in rural areas.

Main characteristics of the crisis in the model of industrial agriculture and in that of conventional food production. Diffussion of industrialization and recreation services in rural areas. Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and its impact on agriculture and rural Europe. Alternative forms of employment and pluriactivity in the countryside.

Quality food production and the significance of local food. Rural landscapes and environmental values. The multisectoral approach and integrated rural development. Revising the rural through the analysis of new social questions (e.g. international migration, internal migration, social exclusion, poverty, desertification, abandonment), environmental protection and revalorization of natural resources.

Teaching and Assessment

Classes and tutorials for presentation and delivering a written assignment. Written exam, oral presentation and submission of a written assignment.