Does economic growth cause population growth?
Usually the reverse. Most of Western Europe is now seeing population declines in the midst of prosperity. Many third world countries have high birth rates fueled by and fueling population growth. The reasoning is basic human survial instincts. In a peaceful, prosperous country, having one or two children guarantees their survival and the parents in their old age. In very poor countries where infant and child mortality are or are perceived to be high, parents tend to have larger families. These cultures frequently expect children to care for their aging parents, thus more children mean a better life as senior citizens.
