The invisible chain: niche inheritance and unequal social reproduction in preindustrial continental Europe

Abstract

A central aspect of the demographic transition model is discussed: the “chain between inheritance and reproduction,” which many historical demographers claim has kept population and resources in balance during the preindustrial period. The basic mechanism is well known: Economic space is thought to be divided into a limited number of self-sufficient positions or niches; since marriage required possession—usually by inheritance—of one such niche, overpopulation was avoided. The existence of this chain in preindustrial continental Europe has generally been taken for granted, although little is known about its actual workings. As a discussion of classical and current research shows, the chain should not be understood as encompassing entire demoeconomic systems at any time or place. Rather, niche mechanisms are relevant for the behavior of specific social groups and as communal or other political strategies. The need for alternative explanations of sociobiographic inequality—such as the impact of kinship on life-course decisions and chances—is emphasized.

Keywords:

• Demography
• Inheritance
• Reproduction

Acknowledgements

This article was derived from a study on the historiography of marriage and niche possession in western Europe supported by the Graduiertenkolleg Westeuropa, Trier University, Germany. The author would like to thank Professors Franz Irsigler and Dietrich Ebeling as well as the members of the Graduiertenkolleg for helpful comments.