Comparative study between social indicators and enrollment rates in Brazil, Portugal, Spain and France

Abstract

In response to the need to obtain contrastable figures refering to the standards of quality of life in the different countries, we present a compound index in the paper. The Physical Quality of Life lndex (PQLI), prepared by the Overseas Development Council. The pPQULI combines three indicators which are easily accessible such as the infant mortality rate, life expectancy and the literacy rate. The author, following her practica1 aplication to the reality of Brazil, Portugal, France and Spain makes a critica1 revision of the strength and accuracy of this indicator of quality of life.