A Falsiable Hypothesis on Algorithmic Media, Innite Scroll, and Reproductive Behaviour

Abstract

The document "Attention_Economy_and_Fertility_Transition_Andrade.pdf" investigates global fertility decline. The author proposes a falsifiable hypothesis regarding the recent impact of the attention economy. The premise is that digital attention-capturing design alters social behavior. This replaces continuous in-person interactions, delaying the formation of romantic bonds. The text rejects the alarmist view that digital technology caused this demographic transition. Fertility decline was already underway due to classical socioeconomic factors. The paper concludes by proposing a rigorous research design for future empirical testing.