The Path Forward

The book closes with a presentation of recommendations based on integrating Part II case studies with Part III priorities. This integration identifies natural starting opportunities among themes and priorities, with an emphasis on local control through community organizations and mentoring of new leaders. Ideas to integrate themes and priorities to enact change are presented. A new approach to rural development under globalization theory is presented, called “networked self-sufficiency.” This approach is conceptually linked to theories in social capital, globalization, community empowerment, and health disparities. Networked self-sufficiency is also described relative to the UN SDGs and to its impacts on public health. We offer an optimistic appraisal of the path forward that will enable formerly vulnerable resource-dependent rural communities to enact lasting, positive change to improve the public health and well-being of their people and contribute to a better world.