Census
A procedure of systematically acquiring information about the members of a given population
Real World Example
In Ancient Rome, the census was a vital tool used to count the population, assess taxes, and determine military obligations. Conducted every five years, it helped the government understand who lived in the empire and what resources they had, which was crucial for efficient administration and planning. This practice addressed issues like fair taxation and organized governance, ensuring that resources were distributed according to population needs. Today, censuses are still essential for governments to plan public services like schools, hospitals, and transportation, ensuring they meet the needs of current populations. For example, if the census shows a growing number of children in a neighborhood, the government might decide to build a new school, directly affecting families and their educational resources.