Final answer:
It is b. false that Modern Economic Growth is associated with shorter lifespans. Developed countries often have better health care and living standards, which increase lifespan. Economic development leads to a 'demographic shift' where birth rates decline as a country becomes more economically secure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modern Economic Growth and Lifespan
Modern Economic Growth is false to be closely tied to the fact that people have shorter life spans. The concept that more economically developed countries tend to have fewer middle-aged individuals and more young individuals than undeveloped countries does not suggest shorter lifespans. In fact, the improved health systems and standards of living associated with economic development typically lead to increases in lifespan. The relationship between population dynamics and economic growth is complex. Economic development can indeed reduce birth rates over time as it brings about a 'demographic shift', characterized by improved economic security, decreased infant mortality rates, and better education, particularly for women.
The relationship between the age population structure and economic development in countries is evidenced by changes in demographic patterns. As a country develops economically, the age structure tends to shift with a higher proportion of the population being younger, and with fewer elderly, rather than implying that the lifespan is shorter. Moreover, the fundamental cause for the acceleration of the human growth rate in the past 200 years has been the reduced death rate due to advances in public health, sanitation, and medical innovation.
In the process of economic development, nations often experience an initial rise in population growth due to improvements in fundamental health measures such as clean drinking water and vaccinations. However, as development progresses, higher income levels and improved education, particularly among women, lead to a decline in birth rates, thus moderating the growth of the population – a phenomenon known as the demographic transition. This trend is clearly seen in developed nations where a decrease in family size has become the norm.