Aims

To present a range of methodological problems (e.g. variables, indicators, and levels of analysis) posed by a study of the relationship between the demographic system (with its various elements) and cultural, economic and political systems. To illustrate, and draw up a critical report on, current knowledge.

Content and teaching methods

- The demographic system and its conceptual interrelations with other systems.
- Interrelations between the elements of the demographic system itself.
- Methodological problems and choices in studying interrelations (e.g. levels, variables, indicators, and quantitative/qualitative) and statistical problems (e.g. measuring correlations, and small numbers).
- An illustration of "good" and "bad" approaches.
- An assessment of knowledge in the form of a few broad questions: In past or present demographical transitions, the roles of religions, economic development and the "crisis" - or of pauperisation, and of western cultural dissemination? Are demographic policies enough on their own? The role of redistributive social policies, and of political systems? The influence of so-called structural and social adjustments and of international interventions?

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Assessment: This will be in the form of a synthesis of reading and applied work.

Other credits in programs