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The Long-Run Effects of Mortality Decline in Developing Countries

Author

Listed:
  • Lehmijoki, Ulla

    (University of Helsinki)

  • Palokangas, Tapio K.

    (University of Helsinki)

Abstract

Since World War II, mortality has declined in the developing world. This paper examines the effects of this mortality decline on demographic and economic growth by a family-optimization model, in which fertility is endogenous and wealth yields utility through its status. The decline in mortality stimulates investment and generates an income stream which promotes population growth, but the desire of status hampers fertility and prevents capital-diluting demographic expansion. If status-seeking is strong, then the decline of mortality decreases population growth below its original level.

Suggested Citation

  • Lehmijoki, Ulla & Palokangas, Tapio K., 2011. "The Long-Run Effects of Mortality Decline in Developing Countries," IZA Discussion Papers 5422, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp5422
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Giscard Assoumou-ella, 2019. "Gender Inequality in Education and per capita GDP: the case of CEMAC Countries," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 39(2), pages 1154-1162.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    mortality; population growth; economic growth;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O41 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - One, Two, and Multisector Growth Models
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J10 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - General
    • O10 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - General

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