Regional patterns of the understanding of the agriculturally shaped environment –challenging an urban-rural dichotomy by considering rural heterogeneity

Social polarization is an increasingly important phenomenon in the context of sustainable land-use changes. A spatial component is often assumed: an urban-rural polarization with “urban" and "rural" being stereotyped as dichotomous categories. Some arguments from the literature contradict this dichotomy: intermediate urban centers are located in rural areas, inhabitants may have different backgrounds, and interconnectedness and commonalities defy a strict urban-rural divide. This study is using the understanding of the agriculturally shaped environment as an indicator for urban-rural conflicts and to detect social polarization. By examining regional patterns in understanding clusters, the study reflects on rural heterogeneity beyond the traditional urban–rural divide. It contributes to capturing the complexity of rural areas and challenges simplistic urban–rural distinctions. The study is based on a large-scale population survey conducted in Western Pomerania, a predominantly rural region with smaller urban centers in northeastern Germany characterized by several land use conflicts. Based on multinomial logistic regression, significant associations between regional characteristics and understanding clusters are found, while controlling for socio-demographic variables. Some results support, while others contradict the hypothesis that understanding of the agricultural environment is not dichotomously distributed along an urban-rural gradient, but is much more heterogeneous. Furthermore, there is a need for action, especially in "urban" areas, to counteract alienation from the agriculturally shaped environment and especially from agriculture, as well as to increase knowledge about sustainability. The authors suggest a more nuanced approach to examining regional differences to accurately address the need for action and counteract social polarization. • Assumed urban-rural polarization can impede sustainable development. • Understanding is essential for constructive (land use) conflict resolution. • Significant associations between regional characteristics and understanding clusters. • Depending on variables, much more heterogeneity than just urban-rural dichotomy. • Special need for action in "urban" areas regarding environmental understanding.