The process of demographic transition in economic development relates to what changes in birth and death rates?

The correct answer outlines that demographic transition is characterized by a simultaneous decrease in both birth and death rates, particularly as a society progresses through economic development. This concept is part of a broader theory that seeks to explain the transition from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates, which typically occurs in response to socioeconomic changes.

Initially, in pre-industrial societies, both birth and death rates are high, leading to a relatively stable population size. Over time, as countries develop economically, improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition tend to reduce the death rate, resulting in longer life expectancies. This growing population might trigger social and economic changes that gradually shift cultural norms surrounding family size, leading to a decrease in the birth rate.

As countries enter the later stages of demographic transition, both rates stabilize at lower levels. This means that while the population may continue to grow for some time due to the previous high birth rates, the declining trends in both rates imply that the society is moving toward a more stable and balanced demographic profile. Thus, the simultaneous decrease in birth and death rates is a hallmark of this transition, where eventually, population growth may level off.

Understanding this process is vital in international relations because demographic changes can influence global issues such as migration patterns