Why Is Africa Different? - Population Growth and Fertility Patterns

Explore the complex factors influencing population growth in Africa through this lecture from Yale University's Global Problems of Population Growth course. Examine cultural controls on fertility, individual and family-level fertility decisions, and the practice of infanticide in some cultures. Analyze how marriage limitations within societies affect population dynamics. Investigate the crucial role of food availability in tropical regions, particularly in Africa, where soil nutrient deficiency and extreme weather conditions impact agricultural productivity. Discover why Africa was historically underpopulated and how this led to cultural emphasis on high fertility rates. Compare fertility rates between sub-Saharan and North African countries, highlighting regional differences. Delve into topics such as agricultural comparisons on a global scale and the impact of diseases on African population growth. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges and cultural factors shaping Africa's demographic landscape.