Easterlin hypothesis
Encyclopedia
The Easterlin hypothesis (Easterlin 1969, 1973) states that the positive relationship between income and fertility
is dependent on relative income. The hypothesis as formulated by Richard Easterlin
presumes that material aspirations are determined by experiences rooted in family background. If income is high relative to aspirations, individuals will tend to have more children. If income is scarce relative to aspirations, they will be hesitant about having more children, since children compete for resources. Children are normal goods once this influence of family background is controlled.
Fertility
Fertility is the natural capability of producing offsprings. As a measure, "fertility rate" is the number of children born per couple, person or population. Fertility differs from fecundity, which is defined as the potential for reproduction...
is dependent on relative income. The hypothesis as formulated by Richard Easterlin
Richard Easterlin
Richard A. Easterlin is University Professor and Professor of Economics at the University of Southern California. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences...
presumes that material aspirations are determined by experiences rooted in family background. If income is high relative to aspirations, individuals will tend to have more children. If income is scarce relative to aspirations, they will be hesitant about having more children, since children compete for resources. Children are normal goods once this influence of family background is controlled.