AbstractsSociology

Singapore: An Aging Society

by Phillip I Lu




Institution: Roskilde University
Department:
Year: 2015
Keywords: Singapore; Aging; Fertility; Population White Paper of 2013; Preference Theory
Posted: 02/05/2017
Record ID: 2112350
Full text PDF: http://rudar.ruc.dk/handle/1800/23977


Abstract

This project is a case study on Singapore and will investigate the issue of an aging population. This project draws upon the general theory of population aging and preference theory. The first part of our analysis is to investigate empirical data of Singapore’s population, fertility rates, mortality, and life expectancy. This is investigated through the use of the general theory of population aging. The second part of our project analyzes policymaking related to population and fertility in Singapore. Singapore, since its independence in 1965, has been introducing regulations on fertility. This was done through the introduction of contraceptives and financial incentives. Preference theory allows policies to be categorized into lifestyle choices and helps define whether a policy will work or not. For the past four decades, the People’s Action Party (PAP) has been in control of the government and policy making. As a result, Singapore has become one of the richest countries with strong market and high innovation. Our project will examine whether an authoritarian state has a role when it comes to policymaking. A discussion on fertility rate in the country will arise through the investigation of past policies dating back to 1965. The latest publication, Population White Paper of 2013, describes the need to increase fertility to strengthen the core of Singapore. This publication was the latest report published and will be critically analyzed to determine whether this plan is functional at a practical level. This will be done through the use of the preference theory. This project concludes that Singapore is facing an aging population and has to follow a more neutral approach when it comes to policy making. Advisors/Committee Members: Fischer, Johan (advisor).