ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses relevant aspects of selected demographic theories, starting with Malthus and the Socialists. Projected demographic changes must be considered in planning. Demographic analysis has many dimensions and significant changes are driven by birth rates in countries and by immigration. The modern theories of demographics and demographic analysis start with Thomas Robert Malthus's An Essay on the Principle of Population, published in 1798. The other important demographic variables are immigration and migration. The policy of encouraging larger and larger populations exists within some cultures throughout the world Plans to inhibit population growth get strong resistance. Increasing populations provide more members of an ethnic or religious group and result in more political power. Some governments encourage immigration to acquire important labor components and experienced and skilled persons to enhance and complement their workforces.
