From Margins to Mainstream: The Emergence of Rural Humanities

Abstract

Rural Humanities is an emerging field that centers the lives, cultures, and social dynamics of rural communities often marginalized by urban-focused frameworks. Drawing on disciplines such as history, sociology, anthropology, literature, and environmental studies, it offers a nuanced understanding of rural life and its relevance to global issues like migration, sustainability, inequality, and ruralurban relations. This article explores the field’s core concepts and theoretical foundations, arguing that Rural Humanities challenges dominant narratives and provides a deeper lens on contemporary life. Through a literature review and critical analysis, it positions the field as vital to addressing shared challenges and advancing interdisciplinary, sustainable solutions that bridge rural and urban divides. By reframing rural spaces as sites of knowledge, resistance, and innovation, Rural Humanities reshapes how we think about geography, culture, and power. It also opens new pathways for collaborative research and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of place-based scholarship. In doing so, the field not only contributes to academic discourse but also informs practical responses to urgent global concerns