The Biodemography of Fertility: A Review and Future Research Frontiers

摘要: The social sciences have been reticent to integrate a biodemographic approach the study of fertility choice and behaviour, resulting in theories findings that are largely socially-deterministic. aim this paper is first reflect on reasons for lack integration, provide review previous examinations, take stock what we learned until now propose future research frontiers. We early foundations proximate determinants followed by behavioural genetic (family twin) studies isolated extent influence traits. then discuss considers gene environment interaction importance cohort country-specific estimates, multivariate models explore motivational precursors education. next section molecular genetics reviews fertility-related candidate their shortcomings on-going work genome wide association studies. Work evolutionary anthropology biology briefly examined, focusing evidence natural selection. Biological factors relevant explaining predicting traits, with socio-environmental still key understanding outcomes. Studying interplay between genes environment, new data sources integration methods will be central trends.