Dropping out means to be self-sufficient and self reliant. In this way, participation in a society that is seen as inherently unjust and destructive, is minimized, and the homesteader can be part of the solution, not the problem. Of course, this last paragraph may be meaningless babble to many. Motives for pursuing this lifestyle, so at odds with the prevailing consumer based economy, probably appeals to a broad base of society. Abraham Maslow taught us the hierarchy of needs .
Basic needs have to be met first, food, water, security.
Because of this, the back to the land movement has never been much of a savior for poverty stricken people despite initial impressions. Land to grow ones own food is not accessible for many of these people and the cultural inpetus is to acquire money to buy the things that they need . We are predominantly white and middle class. Maybe this is appropriate, we still are the center of power, both in government and economically. So, back to 1973, the 60 s were over and american society was changing.