Question

Which of the following is a correct statement about demography?

• A. Demographic change is purely biological.
• B. Demographic data is a static data for a population.
• C. Population explosion does not happen in every country.
• D. Demographic change is based on economic, social and cultural variables.

Hint:

In questions with multiple correct-sounding options, choose the one that represents the most fundamental principle or the broadest truth. The influence of social variables on population dynamics is a foundational concept in demography.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify a factually correct statement about the field of demography, which is the statistical study of human populations.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
(A) Demographic change is purely biological: This is incorrect. While birth and death are biological events, the rates at which they occur (fertility and mortality rates) are heavily influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors like education, healthcare, religion, and economic development.
(B) Demographic data is a static data for a population: This is incorrect. Demographic data is inherently dynamic; populations are constantly changing due to births, deaths, and migration.
(C) Population explosion does not happen in every country: This statement is true. The 'population explosion' is characteristic of Stage 2 of the demographic transition. Some countries, like France, transitioned through the stages more slowly without experiencing the dramatic population boom seen in others. However, option (D) is a more fundamental and encompassing statement.
(D) Demographic change is based on economic, social and cultural variables: This is the most accurate and fundamental statement. It is the central premise of modern demography and the demographic transition theory. Factors like women's education, urbanization, access to healthcare, and economic conditions are the primary drivers of changes in birth and death rates. This statement explains *why* demographic patterns, including phenomena like population explosions, occur.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The most comprehensive and correct statement is that demographic change is driven by a complex interplay of economic, social, and cultural variables.