K2SP 3775 - Comparative Family and Social Demography

The last two centuries saw unprecedented demographic change. Most notably the world’s

population grew from 990 million in the year 1800 to 8 billion in 2023. More recently, marriage and

fertility declined across numerous countries, while non-marital parenthood, divorce and remarriage

became commonplace. In addition, changing migration patterns and increasing life expectancy have

affected various aspects of family and social life. However, the rate and path of demographic

change is not uniform across countries, but differs starkly across the globe. In this seminar, students

will learn the basics of family and social demography in comparative perspective across time and

countries. Sessions will focus on worldwide trends in population size and its three components –

fertility, migration, and mortality – and include small group exercises in retrieving, calculating, and

evaluating demographic information. In addition, special attention will be paid to the potential

causes and consequences of demographic change and how they may vary across countries.

None

Session will generally be split equally between input lectures, group work, and discussions.

Final grades are comprised of a group demographic fact sheet and presentation (25%), a multiple choice mid-term exam (25%), and a final exam (50%).

Students will be expected to complete weekly readings as well as participate actively in weekly

group work and discussions.