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The Demographic Transition: Causes and Consequences

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  • Galor, Oded

    (Brown University)

Abstract

This paper develops the theoretical foundations and the testable implications of the various mechanisms that have been proposed as possible triggers for the demographic transition. Moreover, it examines the empirical validity of each of the theories and their significance for the understanding of the transition from stagnation to growth. The analysis suggests that the rise in the demand for human capital in the process of development was the main trigger for the decline in fertility and the transition to modern growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Galor, Oded, 2012. "The Demographic Transition: Causes and Consequences," IZA Discussion Papers 6334, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp6334
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    mortality; fertility; human capital; gender gap; demographic transition; Unified Growth Theory;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O10 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - General
    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics

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