Courses

Course

Global Population Growth

Yale University

This comprehensive survey course delves into the complexities of global population growth, covering essential aspects such as:

  • Human fertility
  • Population growth and its implications
  • Demographic transition
  • Population policies
  • Human and environmental dimensions of population pressure
  • Demographic history
  • Economic and cultural causes of demographic change
  • Environmental carrying capacity and sustainability
  • Political, religious, and ethical issues regarding fertility

The course aims to provide a balanced perspective, combining theoretical and demographic analyses with real-world examples from both developed and developing countries.

Course Lectures
  • Evolution of Sex and Reproductive Strategies
    Evolution of Sex and Reproductive Strategies
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module explores the evolution of reproductive strategies among various species, particularly focusing on the differences between male and female reproductive burdens. It highlights the strategies employed by males, such as sperm competition and physical dominance, as well as females seeking resources or optimal genes.

    Reproductive violence, including infanticide and rape in great apes, is discussed, providing insight into the complexities of reproduction beyond mere biological functions.

  • Sex and Violence Among the Apes
    Sex and Violence Among the Apes
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module delves into the competitive dynamics of chimpanzee males within their social hierarchies, illustrating how status affects reproductive success. It addresses the physical violence and intimidation used by high-ranking males to control females, leading to discussions on inter-group violence and its implications for intra-group relationships.

    The module highlights the adaptive strategies employed by males, showing how competition for scarce reproductive resources shapes social behavior and mating opportunities.

  • From Ape to Human
    From Ape to Human
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module examines the historical context of human warfare and its parallels with chimpanzee conflicts. It uncovers the prevalence of warfare across societies throughout history while distinguishing the reproductive differences between humans and other great apes.

    Humans' ability to reproduce more frequently is discussed, alongside the potential benefits of increased male involvement in childcare, which may explain higher fecundity rates in humans.

  • When Humans Were Scarce
    When Humans Were Scarce
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    Hunter-gatherer populations are often characterized by low density and a diverse food supply that minimizes crop failures and disease spread. This module analyzes why these populations did not experience rapid growth similar to agricultural societies despite favorable conditions.

    Key topics include the impact of inter-group violence, the transition to agriculture, and the socioeconomic implications of population surges and declines in historical contexts.

  • Why Is Africa Different?
    Why Is Africa Different?
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module uncovers the unique circumstances affecting population growth in Africa, exploring cultural, environmental, and economic factors that encourage high fertility rates. It addresses practices such as infanticide and marriage customs that impact reproductive choices.

    Food availability and its regional variability are also examined, highlighting how these factors influence fertility and population dynamics in Sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Malthusian Times
    Malthusian Times
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    Focusing on lineage and family dynamics, this module discusses how cultural beliefs about ancestry shape reproductive strategies in various societies. It contrasts the familial structures seen in pre-modern Sub-Saharan Africa with those in temperate regions.

    Population pressures, high mortality rates, and the cultural necessity for large families to ensure lineage continuation are examined, along with the societal impacts of epidemics and wars that historically shaped demographics.

  • Demographic Transition in Europe; Mortality Decline
    Demographic Transition in Europe; Mortality Decline
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module investigates the demographic transition in Europe during the mortality decline phase. It analyzes factors that historically limited population growth, such as disease and poor sanitation, and the eventual improvements in public health.

    The Industrial Revolution's role in this transition is emphasized, detailing how innovations in medicine and hygiene contributed to falling death rates and rising populations.

  • Demographic Transition in Europe; Fertility Decline
    Demographic Transition in Europe; Fertility Decline
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module delves into the fertility decline in Europe, emphasizing the socioeconomic factors that influenced changing attitudes toward childbirth during and after the Industrial Revolution. It explores Malthus's theories on population growth and their relevance in contemporary discussions.

    Students will examine the complex relationship between fertility rates, economic development, and societal norms that led to significant demographic changes.

  • Demographic Transition in Europe
    Demographic Transition in Europe
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module covers the expansive demographic transition in Europe, focusing on the cultural shifts that influenced marriage and fertility. It discusses how marriage control evolved, leading to increased fertility rates once contraception became accepted.

    By examining historical patterns of family planning, students will gain insight into how these transitions drastically altered societal structures and population dynamics.

  • Quantitative Aspects
    Quantitative Aspects
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module emphasizes quantitative aspects of population data, discussing the challenges posed by politically influenced census data. It contrasts birth rates in developed and developing countries and highlights factors affecting demographic trends globally.

    By examining the implications of age structure on population growth and the concept of 'momentum' in fertility rates, students will understand the complexities of global population stabilization.

  • Low Fertility in Developed Countries (Guest Lecture by Michael Teitelbaum)
    Low Fertility in Developed Countries (Guest Lecture by Michael Teitelbaum)
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This guest lecture by Michael Teitelbaum investigates the implications of low fertility in developed countries. It examines the societal challenges posed by aging populations and the potential responses, including immigration and policy adaptations.

    Students will explore how historical views on population growth have shifted and the effectiveness of current strategies to manage fertility levels.

  • Human and Environmental Impacts
    Human and Environmental Impacts
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module focuses on the environmental impacts of population growth, examining the relationship between overconsumption in rich countries and underconsumption in poor countries. It discusses the projected growth rates and their implications for sustainability.

    Students will analyze the pressures placed on global resources and the need for economic adjustments to stabilize population and environmental health.

  • Fertility Attitudes and Practices
    Fertility Attitudes and Practices
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module discusses fertility attitudes and practices, highlighting how many women prefer to have fewer children than they currently do. It explores the knowledge of contraception among women and the limited impact of family planning programs without improvements in living standards.

    Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective population policies and addressing reproductive health issues.

  • Demographic Transition in Developing Countries
    Demographic Transition in Developing Countries
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module examines the demographic transition in developing countries, highlighting the rapid changes in birth and death rates and the significant population growth that occurred in the 20th century. The 'population explosion' phenomenon is discussed in detail.

    Students will analyze the challenges posed by this rapid growth, including traditional issues of starvation, disease, and war, and their effects on population stabilization.

  • Female Disadvantage
    Female Disadvantage
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module addresses the female disadvantage in certain regions, particularly concerning the surplus of males resulting from sex-selective practices. It discusses the socioeconomic implications of these gender imbalances and how they affect reproductive health and family planning.

    Bangladesh serves as a case study, showcasing how effective family planning programs can significantly reduce fertility despite socioeconomic challenges.

  • Population in Traditional China
    Population in Traditional China
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module explores population dynamics in traditional China, discussing historical factors that influenced population growth, including resource limitations and cultural practices. It highlights the prevalence of female infanticide and the fertility rates within marriage compared to Europe.

    Students will understand how these dynamics shaped family structures and social organization in traditional Chinese society.

  • Population in Modern China
    Population in Modern China
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module focuses on modern China's population issues, analyzing the shifts in government policies regarding family size and fertility control. It discusses the One-Child Policy's implementation and its outcomes on population growth.

    Students will learn about the socio-economic implications of these policies and the challenges faced by contemporary Chinese society due to population momentum.

  • Economic Impact of Population Growth
    Economic Impact of Population Growth
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module discusses the economic impacts of population growth, emphasizing the importance of fertility rates on economic development. It explores how rapid fertility drops can lead to economic booms as the workforce expands.

    Students will analyze the contrasting economic progress in regions with varying fertility rates, particularly focusing on Sub-Saharan Africa's challenges.

  • Economic Motivations for Fertility
    Economic Motivations for Fertility
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module explores the economic motivations for fertility, discussing how poverty influences family size. It highlights the dual nature of children as both economic assets and liabilities.

    Students will analyze how modern job requirements necessitate fewer children, emphasizing the shift in perceptions regarding family size and economic sustainability.

  • Teen Sexuality and Teen Pregnancy
    Teen Sexuality and Teen Pregnancy
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module addresses the challenges of teen sexuality and pregnancy, comparing the high rates in the US with lower rates in Europe. It discusses the factors contributing to these differences, including education and cultural attitudes toward sexuality.

    Students will explore the implications for public health and family planning, including the importance of effective sex education programs.

  • Global Demography of Abortion
    Global Demography of Abortion
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module presents a global overview of abortion practices, examining the prevalence of abortion in various contexts. It discusses the rates of abortion compared to live births and the legal and social factors influencing access to abortion services.

    Students will analyze the implications of abortion legality on maternal health and societal perceptions of reproductive rights.

  • Media and the Fertility Transition in Developing Countries (Guest Lecture by William Ryerson)
    Media and the Fertility Transition in Developing Countries (Guest Lecture by William Ryerson)
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This guest lecture by William Ryerson explores the role of media in influencing fertility transitions in developing countries. It discusses the effectiveness of radio and television dramas in altering behaviors and attitudes regarding family planning and women's health.

    Students will understand the impact of media on societal norms and population dynamics through the lens of these innovative programs.

  • Biology and History of Abortion
    Biology and History of Abortion
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module examines the biological and historical perspectives on abortion, addressing societal beliefs about the beginning of life and how these views have evolved over time. It discusses the implications of religious texts on reproductive choices and the historical context of abortion practices.

    Students will analyze how these beliefs shape contemporary discussions on reproductive rights and ethical considerations surrounding abortion.

  • Population and the Environment
    Population and the Environment
    Robert Wyman
    Play

    This module discusses the relationship between population and the environment, emphasizing the ongoing challenges posed by rising populations and consumption rates. It highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices to mitigate environmental degradation.

    Students will explore various strategies aimed at stabilizing population growth while addressing ecological concerns, focusing on the role of fertility decline in environmental sustainability.

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