Abstracts of Papers Presented at the 1968 Annual Meetings of the O.V.S.S.

Abstract

Preparation for blizzard conditions by respondents in Wood County, Ohio, in 1977–1978 was higher than expected; a majority of those who received warnings responded with further preparation, but planned little more preparation for the winter of 1978–1979. The best predictors of preparation were: place of residence, age, marital status, sex, and occupation. Variables best predicting plans to prepare for the approaching winter were: maintenance expense incurred as a result of the winter of 1977–1978, marital status, the number of family members at home during the blizzard, and place of residence.

The respondents had a reasonably clear understanding of their actual situation; there was little evidence to suggest they were poorly prepared and unrealistic at the same time. Further examination of the theory of “bounded rationality” to determine conditions under which it is most useful is suggested.     

A note on the status of women as a factor in population growth in less developed countries

The 1978 U.S. Bureau of the Census reported 4.3 billion as the world's population. 3.1 billion were living in the less developed areas where life is characterized by poverty and low levels of material well-being. In the develop countries the per capita income averaged $490, compared to $5,210 in developed areas. Little attention has been paid to the status of women in developing countries, where the impact of development often has a negative effect. As a measure of women's status, rates are given for male/female infant mortality. If the ratio is less than 1.14 the status of women is low. If the is 1.15-1.24 the status is medium. If the ratio is 1.25 and over, women enjoy high status. In countries where women have low status the population growth ra averages 3%. Where the status of women is medium, the growth rate is 2.5%. I countries of high status the population growth rate is 2.2. Further research is needed on correlations between population and economic growth, with particula emphasis on subtle factors behind population/economic development.