| Abstract: | The author argues that the linkages between population and development are too complex to be understood in a narrow cause-effect frame. It is suggested that population policies designed to lower birth rates have succeeded only where certain prerequisites could be created. Focussing upon some of the popular perspectives, the author's study indicates research tasks and questions which, if pursued seriously, can help in comprehending the multidimensionality of population-development relationships. Sections discuss perspectives; a dichotomous world scenario with regard to population growth and development; the myth and reality in the mismatch between world population growth and potential resources in the context of technological developments; status, gaps, and tasks in population research in geography; population growth; determinants of population growth; and literacy and education. |
