Democracy and the demographic transition

Wilson, Ben and Dyson, Tim (2016) Democracy and the demographic transition. Democratization . ISSN 1351-0347

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Abstract

This paper addresses the role of demographic factors in contributing to the emergence of democracy. It maintains that, other things equal, progress in the demographic transition promotes democratization. The argument is developed with reference to the effects of interrelated changes in mortality, natural increase (i.e. population growth), fertility, and population age structure. Suggestions are also made with respect to how demographic and democratic trends should be gauged. An analysis of data for the period 1970-2005 for 77 countries that were initially non-democratic provides substantial support for the argument. Some implications are discussed, as are future trends in democratization from a demographer’s perspective.

Item Type:	Article
Official URL:	http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/fdem20#.V0QeKPkrLGg
Additional Information:	© 2016 Taylor & Francis
Library of Congress subject classification:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform J Political Science > JF Political institutions (General)
Sets:	Departments > International Development Departments > Methodology
Date Deposited:	24 May 2016 09:33
URL:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/66620/

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