doi: 10.1016/0022-0531(69)90034-9.
The optimum population and growth: a new look; a modification to include a preference for children in the welfare function
- PMID: 12305463
- DOI: 10.1016/0022-0531(69)90034-9
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The optimum population and growth: a new look; a modification to include a preference for children in the welfare function
J Econ Theory.
1969 Oct.
Abstract
PIP: An econometric model is proposed whereby optimum population levels can be defined. An optimum population is less than the maximum and varies according to several factors. The static optimum population which determines optimum solely by per capita income is inadequate since any level of welfare can always be increased by merely reducing the population. Other conditions for figuring social welfare must be used. A dynamic optimum population must be figured on the basis of such factor s as a preference for leisure or for open spaces. The prediction of optimum population levels is useful for the formulation of social policy.