Religion, Population and the Environment

Sriya Iyer, Ksenija Iljina and Kishen Shastry

Cambridge Working Papers in Economics from Faculty of Economics, University of Cambridge

Abstract: This paper examines the intersection of religion, population dynamics, and environmental sustainability, advocating for a more integrated approach to these relationships. While prior research has explored the links between religion and demography, as well as religion and the environment, this study argues that the combined influence of religious beliefs on both population trends and environmental outcomes is essential to addressing societal and ecological challenges. By analysing ethical imperatives and community structures within various religious traditions, the paper demonstrates how religious institutions can contribute to sustainable population management and resource preservation. The study calls for expanded research into the complex interplay between religion, demographic trends, and environmental attitudes, particularly in underexplored regions and religious contexts. Drawing from bibliometric analysis, we highlight the need to move beyond Christianity and Western perspectives, embracing global viewpoints to better understand how diverse religious beliefs influence these outcomes. It stresses the importance of focusing on developing countries, where rapid population growth and environmental challenges are most pressing. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for comprehensive data sets and integrated policy frameworks that incorporate religious factors in demographic and environmental decision-making, to strengthen international cooperation and sustainability efforts.

Keywords: Economics of Religion; Fertility; Environment; Climate; Development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J11 J13 Q54 Q56 Z12 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024-09-09
Note: si105
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cam:camdae:2450

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