Economics – Economic development - Population | e-Consult
Economic development - Population (1 questions)
Login to see all questions.
Click on a question to view the answer
Natural death rate, as defined previously, is the number of deaths per 1,000 people per year, excluding external factors. Infant mortality rate (IMR) is the number of deaths of infants (usually defined as under one year of age) per 1,000 live births in a year.
Both are important measures of a country’s development because:
- Natural Death Rate & Development: A low natural death rate indicates a well-functioning healthcare system, good sanitation, and adequate nutrition – all hallmarks of a developed country. A high rate suggests inadequate resources and poor living conditions, common in developing nations.
- Infant Mortality Rate & Development: The IMR is a strong indicator of a country's overall health and living standards. A high IMR often reflects poor access to prenatal care, inadequate healthcare for mothers and infants, and malnutrition. A low IMR suggests better healthcare, improved nutrition, and safer living conditions.
- Combined Indicator: Both rates provide a more comprehensive picture of a country's development than either rate alone. A low natural death rate combined with a low IMR strongly suggests a high level of development.
In summary, both rates are crucial for assessing a country's level of development and identifying areas where improvements in healthcare and living standards are needed.