A researcher studying early modern Europe would most likely use parish baptismal and burial records in investigating which of the following research topics?

The choice of using parish baptismal and burial records is particularly aligned with research on patterns of change in birth rates and mortality rates. These records provide essential demographic data, allowing researchers to track the number of baptisms (indicative of births) and burials (indicative of deaths) over time within specific communities.

By analyzing this data, researchers can identify trends such as fluctuations in population growth, changes in fertility and mortality rates, and the impact of public health crises. For instance, during periods of war, disease outbreaks, or significant social changes, researchers can observe how these events affect birth and death rates. This makes parish records an invaluable resource for understanding demographic shifts in early modern Europe, reflecting broader social and economic conditions and their effects on populations.

Other options may involve various societal aspects, but they do not directly relate to the demographic changes that baptismal and burial records specifically capture.