INTRODUCTION 



The cordial reception given the first edition of this little 

 book has made a second edition necessary. Some changes, 

 which in the light of class room use seemed advisable have 

 been made. Many topics have been treated more fully, a few 

 that were not in the first edition have been included, and a few 

 others have been omitted entirely. A course of study adapted 

 to eighth grade pupils in rural schools has been added. In mak- 

 ing use of this course of study in a rural school it is suggested 

 that the topics be taken up in connection with the work in his- 

 tory, civics, geography, etc. 



This book is intended as an introduction to the study of 

 rural economics and rural sociology. It has been prepared to 

 meet the needs of rural teachers and pupils in rural schools. 

 In no sense is it a scientific treatise. It will have served its 

 purpose if it leads its readers to a further study of the great 

 movements making for the betterment of country life. 



JOHN PHELAN 



Department of Rural Schools, 

 State ^Normal School 



Stevens Point, Wisconsin. 

 April, 1915 



5G05f>G 



