Population Growth and Fertility Rates in Human Societies

These flashcards cover key concepts related to population growth, fertility rates, and demographic changes as discussed in the lecture.

What affects fertility and child mortality rates?

Higher child mortality rates require higher replacement fertility rates.

What major trend occurred in human population growth beginning in the 1800s?

Human population entered a period of exponential growth.

What caused the exponential growth in the human population after the 1800s?

It was primarily due to a decrease in child mortality rates, not larger family sizes.

What historical period marked the earliest estimates of the human population?

During the early Roman Empire with estimates around 200 million.

What is meant by 'population momentum'?

The phenomenon where a population continues to grow even after reaching replacement fertility due to a high number of births in previous years.

How does education level affect fertility rates in women?

As education levels increase, total fertility rates tend to decrease.

What is the relationship between economic opportunity and total fertility rates?

Increased economic opportunities reduce the desire for larger families.

What are the three fundamental age structures in human populations?

Pyramidal, vertical, and inverted pyramidal age structures.

Why is the age structure of a population important?

It indicates the potential demographic challenges such as workforce supply and age-related service needs.

What happens to population structure when it falls below replacement fertility?

The average age of the population increases, leading to an inverted pyramid structure.

What do projections for future population growth typically depend on?

Estimates of birth rates and death rates.

What is ecological carrying capacity?

The maximum number of individuals an environment can support indefinitely based on available resources.

What has happened to global population growth recently?

It has been slowing down, despite still increasing.

What is a major consequence of an aging population?

Increased demand for old age care, pensions, and social security.

How do societal norms influence fertility choices?

Societal changes often lead individuals to prefer fewer children due to shifts in personal and economic aspirations.