demographic transition

Economic theory that links population changes to levels of economic, education, and healthcare development. It states that as women become better educated and financially independent, the global fertility rates will continue to decline since women will (1) have fewer children, (2) delay having them, or (3) forgo having them. Low birth rates combined with low death rates (due to better health care and nutrition) will result in an increasing number of older people dependent on pension schemes (see demographic time bomb). Also called demographic evolution.