Toxic Demography examines how population debates increasingly shape political and public discussions across Europe and beyond. Drawing on examples from Europe, North America, and East Asia, the book shows how concerns about fertility trends, population decline, and ageing are often framed through national identity, cultural anxieties, or perceived threats. Rather than treating demographic figures as neutral, the authors highlight how data are interpreted, simplified, or selectively used to support political narratives about migration, family policies, and societal cohesion.
The book offers a critical perspective on how demographic knowledge is produced and communicated, and how this affects policy thinking. By unpacking the rise of alarmist or ideologically driven demographic narratives, Toxic Demography encourages readers to reflect on the responsibilities of researchers, journalists, and policymakers in shaping informed and balanced public debate. It provides valuable insights for those working at the intersection of population research, social policy, and democratic governance.