Dwight Sanderson
The Farmer and His Community
"The Farmer and His Community" by Dwight Sanderson is a sociological exploration written in the early 20th century. This work examines the structure and significance of rural communities in relation to agricultural life, emphasizing the ways in which farmers can organize and improve their community engagements. The narrative reflects on the historical evolution of rural community dynamics in America, positing that a thriving agricultural society relies heavily on strong, interconnected communities. The opening of the text sets the stage for discussing the rural community as historically significant yet often overlooked. Sanderson introduces the idea that the initial settlements of farmers were isolated, with limited ties to one another, leading to a lack of community identity. Through the analysis of various institutions like churches, schools, and local organizations, the author highlights the eventual need for farmers to come together in cooperative efforts to tackle common challenges. The narrative conveys a sense of optimism about the potential for community organization to enhance the quality of rural life, framing it as critical to the sustainability and progress of agriculture and the social fabric of rural America.