Dynamics of Values in Fertility Change

The `Fertility Transition': the move from large extended families towards the nuclear family already prevalent in the West, is one of the most notable demographic trends of the 20th Century. By taking a wide variety of theoretical approaches and combining them with highly focused empirical studies, this volume investigates, explains, and analyses the impact that changing cultural and moral beliefs have had on fertility practice. The contributors study both developed and developing countries, creating a picture of the global situation, while introductory and concluding chapters pick up the major themes and discuss their implications.