Which generalization is best illustrated by a world map showing population distribution?

The correct choice highlights that the majority of the world's population lives between 20° N and 60° N latitude. This generalization is supported by extensive demographic studies and population density maps which reveal that the most densely populated regions, such as parts of East Asia, Europe, and North America, fall within this latitude range. This is due to various factors such as climatic conditions that favor agriculture, historical development of urban areas, and economic opportunities that have attracted populations to these areas.

Regions outside of this latitude zone, particularly those located at very high latitudes or in deserts, tend to have lower population densities due to harsh living conditions and limited resources. Thus, the population distribution reflects significant patterns that are influenced by geography, climate, and availability of arable land, leading to a concentration of people within the specified latitude range.

In contrast, the other options don't accurately represent global population distribution. Urbanization does lead to a growing proportion of people living in cities, but the most significant factor in global population distribution is latitude rather than urban status alone. Furthermore, while Africa is experiencing population growth, it does not contain the majority of the world’s population. Lastly, population distribution is characterized more by patterns of density and clustering rather than even distribution across continents.