Population and Society

‘An excellent introduction to the scientific study of human populations. Poston and Sullivan are eminent scholars who know how to communicate big ideas and the intricacies of measurement with clear logic and style. Students will learn that the headlines of today – the impact of immigration, sexual orientation and gender identity, partnering and parenting, ethnic and racial blending, pandemics, and the future of work – can be measured and studied with demographic data and analysis. The book addresses the policy implications of demographic research, but cautions against simple-minded policies designed to affect demographic behavior that have been tried in the past and have failed. Students and instructors will be informed by the rich review of classical topics and up-to-date research findings in an unusually comprehensive bibliography. Although primarily focused on social demography, it would be an excellent introduction to demography in any social or biological science course.’ Charles Hirschman, University of Washington ‘A valuable resource for those seeking to understand the importance of a demographic perspective. Writing in an engaging, accessible style, Poston and Sullivan cover the usual subfields (fertility, mortality, migration) but also include a broader range of topics (gender identity, sexual orientation, epidemics, aging), making it clear just how extensive and influential the field of demography and demographic processes are.’ Nancy Riley, Bowdoin College ‘An engaging, comprehensive, and updated introductory demography text. Poston and Sullivan present a highly understandable, and even conversational, approach to introducing and explaining theories, data sources, demographic processes, demographic characteristics, and more. They make demography accessible to today's students.’ Carla Alphonso, Presbyterian College ‘The much-awaited third edition of Population and Society is here! What a treat! Poston and Sullivan, two of the most prominent demographers in the field, have put together an exceptional book. The book features new chapters, data, and countries. Written in an engaging style, students will surely experience many ‘aha’ and eye-popping moments reading this fountain of demographic knowledge.’ Rogelio Sáenz, University of Texas at San Antonio ‘An outstanding introduction to demographic analysis. This book is ideal for introducing students to the discipline of demography. From theory to data to real-life examples, it covers the field comprehensively and helps students understand the application of demographic concepts to their everyday lives.’ Fizza Raza, Georgia State University ‘An exemplary textbook for learning the fundamentals of demography, and a user-friendly handbook for lay audiences interested in the myriad social and economic determinants and consequences of population dynamics. Drawing on their vast teaching and research experiences, veteran demographers Poston and Sullivan feature their expansive command of demography as an interdiscipline, providing broad-ranging historical, contemporary, domestic, and international accounts that illustrate how demography shapes social destinies. Five stars!’ Marta Tienda, Princeton University