Manpower Adjustments: Low-Income Rural Areas.

Technological and economic development has spiraled in those areas in the United States that are at the crossroads of cultural exchange. On the other hand, cultural patterns of subsistence farmers in hill areas have changed very slowly. The cultural values in subsistence farming differ fundamentally from those in commercial agriculture. They stress getting along on small resources, staying out of debt, and being content with what you have, as contrasted with a special regard for managerial skill, high productive methods, and ambition to get ahead. The opportunity of subsistence farmers to shift into commercial farming is limited. The shift in values is most difficult; furthermore, as farm technology increases, a continuous flow of manpower out of agriculture is necessary. Local nonfann work opportunities are increasing, but the major shift is to employment in large urban centers. The habits and values of these people are a strong handicap in their adjustment to the responsibilities of urban life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]