"This paper investigates the logical consistency of the mathematical models used in the analysis of fertility fluctuations since the end of [the] demographic transition. Two main families of models may be distinguished: those related to demographic 'cinematics', including the well known Easterlin model; and those related to the 'dynamics' of the reproduction system, among which Volterra's prey-predator model takes a particular place. The possibilities of operationalizing the latter model are also discussed." (SUMMARY IN ENG AND SPA)
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