Title: Theory of fertility decline.

POPLINE Document Number: 011865

Author(s):

Caldwell JC

Source citation:

London and New York, Academic, 1982. 386 p.

Abstract:

Outlines the development of the "wealth flows" theory of fertility decline, as it has been tested and refined against 3rd World populations and against western historical data. The theory emphasizes the fundamental nature of social and economic relations within the family, pointing out how subtle changes in the former can have a profound effect on the latter. Also highlights the importance of micro studies in demographic work, and the need for applying scientific method to the study of fertility transition. The dynamics of fertility change in Australia from the late 19th century to the present, and in contemporary western and 3rd World countries is explored; emphasis is placed on alterations in the relative position of the sexes in terms of family change. The "wealth flows" theory asserts that fertility decline is the result of changes in the family's internal economic structure and that high fertility, per se, has not been an economic disadvantage throughout most of the world's history.

Keywords:

Socioeconomic Factors
Demographic Transition
Historical Review
Research Report
Family Relationships
Australia
Developing Countries
Economic Factors
Population Dynamics
Demographic Factors
Population
Family Characteristics
Family and Household
Developed Countries
Oceania