The author states that there are inherent contradictions and assumptions in community development (CD) theory and practice. Contradictions spring from a tendency to apply CD on an inappropriate level and for incorrect purposes. Assumptions spring from CD's Western cultural origins. (CH)

Describes new U.S. Census system dividing counties into 11 classification groups. Defines five metropolitan and six nonmetropolitan county classifications. Briefly discusses principles of new system, which uses 1980 census figures in attempt to reflect character of development in each county. Contains three charts. (TES)

In five Great Plains states, more counties have fewer than six persons per square mile (once a definition of "frontier") than in 1920. Forces of nature and technology have produced fewer farms, resulting in fewer residents and loss of local businesses and schools. Carrington, North Dakota, worked hard to attract a pasta plant, but it may…

A survey of 135 small towns in Nebraska found that half had undertaken economic development projects; development activity and success were related to community size (with the smallest communities lacking both local resources and outside support); and most community leaders perceived their development efforts as unproductive. (SV)

In an effort to determine the extent to which the development of the retirement function can contribute to growth and development of rural communities, 42 counties not adjacent to Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas in Michigan were studied. The retirement function was treated as a specialized community function, parallel to specialization…

Rural people consistently support environmental protection less than urban people. Four hypotheses tested reasons for this using 1973-1978 General Social Survey data. Socialization in metropolitan areas which leads to favorable consideration of social solutions to environmental problems received the most support, but nothing explained much of the…

The purpose of this study was to evaluate programs of the Department of Housing and Urban Development and other specified Federal agencies regarding their responsiveness to the problems and needs of small communities. A major objective was to define a "small" community and to determine how its problems and needs differ from those of a…

This study assessed the extent to which the stated commitment of State University of New York to provide community service programs in adult education has been met and the relationship between the number of programs and such factors as community size, the age of the college, the number of colleges offering programs within the community, and means…

The Carter Administration is adopting a Small Community and Rural Development Policy because: (1) rural America's human and natural resources are a mainstay of the nation's economy and way of life; (2) many rural areas are in the midst of significant economic and demographic change; (3) rural people and communities have greater unmet basic human…