The Problem of Population

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1. The Situation

• World Population Clock /

•  Growth
•  Demographic Transition

2. So What?  Who Cares about population?

a.  Carrying Capacity (Garrett Hardin, “Tragedy of the Commons”)

b.  Economic Capacity

c.  Political Capacity

3.  Alternative Perspectives and Values

a. “We’re all gonna die!” -  Population is a Crisis
      Thomas Malthus
      Paul Ehrlich: “The Population Bomb”
        Zero Population Growth / Negative Population Growth

b. “Don’t worry, be happy” -  Population is an opportunity
      Julian Simon

c. “It’s technology, stupid” -  Population problems can be fixed
      Barry Commoner

4.  What can reduce high birthrates in a developing country?

a. An assured food supply

b. reduced infant mortality rates

c. literacy

d. rudimentary health services

e. social insurance

f. industrialization and urbanization

g. rising economic expectations

h. women’s rights, work outside the home
 

 

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Course Conclusion

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http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/