The Very Short Introductions Podcast Demography – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 39
Nov 4, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Sarah Harper, a renowned Professor of Gerontology at the University of Oxford and author, dives deep into the fascinating world of demography. She explores how population structures have shaped historical alliances and modern policies. Discover how demographic factors influence life expectancy and social opportunities, and learn about the demographic transition that affects fertility and ageing. Harper also delves into the multidisciplinary nature of demography, from historical methods to contemporary challenges, making it clear why understanding population dynamics is crucial today.
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Population Shapes Nations
- Population structure shapes political, economic and cultural outcomes across local to global scales.
- Sarah Harper argues demography frames alliances, migration, and economic transfers between nations.
School Talk That Shaped A Career
- Sarah Harper recounts being inspired by a school talk on maternal health in Africa which showed urban access saved mothers' lives.
- She realised the demography you are born into frames your entire life and opportunities.
Population Growth Through History
- Human population grew slowly until the agricultural and industrial revolutions accelerated numbers dramatically.
- Harper notes current global population is ~7.5 billion and may reach ~10 billion this century.
