Current research on social networks in some rural communities reports continuing demise despite efforts to build resilient communities. Several factors are identified as contributing to social decline including globalisation and rural social characteristics. Particular rural social characteristics, such as strong social bonds among members of rural communities may not extend to those deemed as "outsiders": thus restricting the information and skills afforded by extended social networks. It is predicted that rural communities may fail unless they are able to renew existing social structures to more socially inclusion arrangements. It is proposed that better social inclusion of individuals will supply novel solutions to innovate rural communities.
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