Dean Spears

In a captivating discussion, economist Dean Spears, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin and founding executive director of r.i.c.e, delves into the complexities of global population dynamics. He reveals how fears of overpopulation have shifted to concerns about declining birth rates. Spears challenges misconceptions about zero-sum economics, emphasizing the link between population and innovation. He explores cultural attitudes toward reproduction, government family planning policies, and the societal implications of a shrinking population, offering a refreshing perspective on parenting in a tech-driven future.

Dean Spears and Michael Geruso, both professors of economics and demography at UT Austin, share thought-provoking insights on the potential dangers of depopulation. They discuss the troubling decline in birth rates and its societal implications, contrasting them with historical fears of overpopulation. Anecdotes about parenting illustrate the urgency of changing perspectives on family size. The conversation also touches on ethical dilemmas in modern technology and the impact of coercive reproductive policies, making a compelling case for understanding demographic shifts.

In this engaging discussion, Dean Spears, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin and founding director of r.i.c.e., sheds light on the critical neonatal health challenges in Uttar Pradesh, India. He reveals shocking neonatal mortality rates and explores the effective kangaroo mother care program, emphasizing its life-saving impact through skin-to-skin contact. The conversation also touches on the socioeconomic factors affecting maternal and infant health, and the hope for future improvements through innovative, low-cost healthcare solutions.