What is a major factor that influences population growth in a society?

A primary factor that influences population growth in a society is birth rates. Birth rates are a measure of the number of live births per thousand people in a given year and are fundamental to understanding how populations expand or contract over time. When birth rates are high, there tends to be a corresponding increase in the overall population, assuming other factors like death rates remain stable.

In many societies, especially those experiencing rapid growth, higher birth rates contribute significantly to demographic changes; they can lead to a youthful population structure, which can influence economic development, social systems, and demand for resources. Moreover, societal attitudes towards family size, access to healthcare, and education can also affect birth rates, making them a crucial element in studying population dynamics.