The relationship between economic well-being and fertility decisions is a topic that has been hotly contested over time.
A country’s fertility rate is generally inversely correlated with its standard of living, but which way around is this causality, or do the causal factors work in both directions, and how do they change over time?
As well as the general discussion about wealth and fertility, current low and falling birth rates in many countries are a cause for concern because of the potential impact fewer children now and fewer workers and consumers in the future will have on those countries’ economies, health care systems and pension arrangements.
This seminar will look at current and projected fertility rates and their demographic, social and economic consequences.