Population Geography

Aspects of population constitute a major force for global change at the beginning of the 21st century. Much of this interest has shifted from the perceived problem of a 'population explosion' towards the cause and effect of internal and external population movements. Ethnic conflict and economic turmoil has led to the number of asylum seekers and refugees reaching their highest levels since the immediate aftermath of World War Two. Nevertheless, there continues to be concern about population growth and resources, an ageing population, newly emerging and re-emerging diseases and inequality. Population Geography firstly explores the nature of this important sub-discipline looking at its development, theories, debates, issues and methods. It proceeds to analyse in some detail how populations are distributed, why there is such geographical variation and what this means for policy, wellbeing, resources and environment. The key dynamics of population change including fertility, mortality and migration are introduced in terms of data and methods, theory, determinants and spatial variations. Each chapter includes a host of international case studies to explore current debates such as teenage pregnancy, safe sex and economic versus opportunistic migration. Policies and practices to influence aspects of population behaviour, distribution and dynamics are also explored. The text presents a simulating, topical and at times controversial introduction to the important discipline of population geography. The importance of space and place is emphasized, highlighting the importance of geography to our understanding of contemporary population issues such as population movements ageing populations and technological advances in fertility.