Question

A. In 4-6 sentences describe the changes shown in these population pyramids, and explain them in terms of the demographic transition model.

B. In 4-6 sentences, identify and briefly explain implications of these population changes in terms of how they would affect at least one public service and one consumer service.
C. In 3-4 sentences, identify one challenge Japan will face given the 2050 projection, and what policy it might enact to address that challenge.

Answer 1

The population pyramids show the changes in the age structure of a population over time. The first pyramid is a classic example of a pyramid-shaped population structure, with a broad base and tapering towards the top. This is indicative of a population with a high birth rate and high mortality rate, where there are many young people and a lower proportion of older individuals.

The second pyramid, however, is more column-shaped, with a relatively even distribution of age groups. This suggests a population that has undergone demographic transition, with a decrease in birth rates and mortality rates, resulting in a more stable population structure. This shift in the age structure can be explained by the demographic transition model, which suggests that as countries develop economically and socially, they move from high birth rates and high mortality rates to low birth rates and low mortality rates.

During the early stages of development, improvements in healthcare and sanitation lead to a decrease in mortality rates, resulting in a population with a large proportion of young people. However, as education levels and economic opportunities increase, people begin to have fewer children, leading to a decrease in birth rates. This leads to a more stable age structure, with a relatively even distribution of age groups, as seen in the second pyramid. In summary, the changes in the population pyramids are reflective of the demographic transition model, where a shift from high birth rates and high mortality rates to low birth rates and low mortality rates results in a more stable population structure.