In his newly-published book “Population Study in the New Era”，Tian Xueyuan gives a systematic account and analysis of population theories，and a detailed introduction of Professor Ma Yingchu’s “neo-population study.”

In recent years，population research in China has progressed considerably. Extensive studies of the basic theories of population has brought more in-depth and comprehensive analysis.

Traditional views see a pattern in population development in terms of a particular social situation，but many population specialists now consider that there are patterns to all socio-economic conditions.

In the past，population studies considered a continuous increase in population as the pattern in socialist society，and a manifestation of the superiority of socialism.

Now many scholars agree that socialism does not necessarily require population growth.

In the past，the theory of “the two productions” which relates material growth to population growth had been regarded as a betrayal of historical materialism. Now the general view is that “the two productions” determines social development，with material production playing the dominant role. This is regarded not as a betrayal of historical materialism but adherence to it.