Final answer:
The term "demographic transition" refers to the changes in population growth rates associated with the Industrial Revolution. The demographic transition involves the shift from high to low birth and death rates due to advancements in various sectors. The Industrial Revolution was a critical event that led to this demographic shift.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "demographic transition" refers to the Industrial Revolution, which is a nineteenth-century event. The demographic transition describes the process where a society moves from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a result of industrialization and improvements in medical and living conditions. This shift has been outlined in a model known as the Demographic Transition Model (DTM).
The Industrial Revolution not only shifted populations from rural to urban areas but also brought about significant changes in the population growth rates. Initially, high birth and death rates are followed by plummeting death rates due to advancements in sanitation, health services, and an overall improved standard of living, which then leads to a net population increase. Eventually, birth rates also begin to decline as infant mortality decreases and women's education and empowerment increase, leading to smaller family sizes. The economic transformation during this period allowed for a greater investment in health and education, which is crucial for the demographic transition towards a modern, urban society.