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Cultural and Social Factors Influencing Mortality Levels in Developing Countries

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  • JOHN C. CALDWELL

Abstract

Recent analyses of Third World data, both at the level of national or other large aggregates and at that of individuals studied in sample surveys, have revealed the surprising fact that social characteristics, such as the level of schooling or fertility control, or cultural characteristics, such as ethnic group, are usually more influential in determining mortality levels than is access to medical services, income, or nutritional levels. Evidence from the United States at the beginning of the century suggests that this was not the case earlier in the West. This article examines the evidence, shows why developing countries are currently in an unusual situation, and presents anthropoligical evidence on how cultural, social, and behavioral factors achieve their impact. An attempt is made to begin the construction of a more general theory of mortality transition.

Suggested Citation

  • John C. Caldwell, 1990. "Cultural and Social Factors Influencing Mortality Levels in Developing Countries," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 510(1), pages 44-59, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:510:y:1990:i:1:p:44-59
    DOI: 10.1177/0002716290510001004
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    1. Cleland, John G. & van Ginneken, Jerome K., 1988. "Maternal education and child survival in developing countries: The search for pathways of influence," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 27(12), pages 1357-1368, January.
    2. Khan, M. E. & Anker, Richard, & Ghosh Dastidar, S. K. & Bairathi S., 1987. "Inequalities between men and women in nutrition and family welfare services: an in-depth enquiry in an Indian village," ILO Working Papers 992546723402676, International Labour Organization.
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