Ansley J. Coale

Definition

Ansley J. Coale was a prominent American demographer known for his significant contributions to the field of demographic research, particularly in understanding population dynamics and fertility patterns. His work has been fundamental in shaping modern demographic theory and methods, emphasizing the importance of data analysis and modeling in demographic studies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coale's research highlighted the relationship between fertility rates and socioeconomic factors, influencing policies aimed at population control.
2. He developed the Coale-Demeny model life tables, which are widely used for demographic analysis and projections.
3. Coale was instrumental in the establishment of demographic data collection methods that improved the accuracy of population statistics.
4. His work on the 'second demographic transition' has provided insights into the changing patterns of family formation and reproductive behavior in modern societies.
5. Coale served as a key figure in international population studies, contributing to the United Nations' initiatives on population and development.

Review Questions

• How did Ansley J. Coale's research contribute to our understanding of the relationship between socioeconomic factors and fertility rates?
  • Ansley J. Coale's research played a crucial role in revealing how various socioeconomic factors, such as education, income, and urbanization, impact fertility rates. He emphasized that as societies become more developed, women often gain access to education and employment opportunities, which typically leads to lower fertility rates. By analyzing these relationships, Coale helped inform policies aimed at managing population growth and addressing fertility-related issues.
• Evaluate the significance of Coale's development of the Coale-Demeny model life tables in demographic studies.
  • The Coale-Demeny model life tables are significant because they provide a standardized method for analyzing mortality patterns across different populations. By using these model life tables, researchers can estimate life expectancy and assess the health status of populations more accurately. This tool has been widely adopted in demographic research and public health planning, allowing for better comparisons and analyses across various demographic contexts.
• Discuss the implications of Ansley J. Coale's work on the second demographic transition for contemporary society.
  • Ansley J. Coale's insights into the second demographic transition highlight significant shifts in family structures and reproductive behavior in contemporary society. His findings suggest that factors such as increased individualism, women's empowerment, and changing attitudes toward marriage have led to delayed family formation and lower birth rates in many developed countries. This has far-reaching implications for social policy, economic planning, and understanding population aging, ultimately influencing how societies adapt to these demographic changes.

Related terms

Demographic Transition Theory: A theory that describes the transition from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a country develops economically.

Fertility Rates: Measures the number of live births per 1,000 women of childbearing age, which are essential for understanding population growth.

Population Projections: Estimates of future population size and composition based on current demographic trends, vital statistics, and assumptions about future changes.