Depopulation and the evolution of the socio-economic structure in mountain areas. A proposal for mountain development based on valley capitals

Abstract

Since the mid-nineteenth Century, mountain societies have been subject too farreaching changes which have profoundly altered their economic and social structure and their cultural base. This article describes the rapid depopulation process which has affected the HIGH PYRENEES MAB-6 area up to the present day, and examines the economic and social processes implied both as causes and consequences. The traditional population pattern in the study area is described, as is the present pattern which has resulted from the crisis suffered in the former system.