Population Growth and Economic Theories

A theory suggesting that population growth will always outrun the available resources, leading to poverty, misery, and starvation.

The idea that population growth can stimulate economic development by providing a larger workforce and a greater market for goods and services.

A theory stating that population growth has no significant impact on economic growth. It argues that economic growth is driven by technological advancements and other factors.

The rate at which a population increases, typically expressed as a percentage.

The total number of people that can be sustainably supported by a given area or environment.

Factors that limit population growth, such as disease, famine, and war.

Factors that prevent population growth, such as delayed marriage and contraception.

A modern version of the Malthusian theory that emphasizes the environmental impact of population growth and the need for sustainable development.

An effect of population growth where the ratio of capital (tools, machinery, infrastructure) to labor decreases. This happens because population growth doesn't automatically increase savings, which are needed to build more capital.

When a larger proportion of the population is young and dependent on others for support. This increases household consumption needs, leading to lower savings and slower economic growth.

Population growth can lead to governments shifting their spending to areas like health and education. This can be at the expense of other, potentially more productive investments that could drive economic growth.

A situation where a country's population grows faster than its ability to produce enough food and other resources. This can result in poverty, famine, and social unrest.

A group of experts who study global issues and published the influential report 'Limits to Growth' warning about the risks of unchecked population growth, resource depletion, and environmental damage.

The idea that rapid population growth and excessive resource consumption, along with pollution, can lead to collapse of economic and social systems.

A prominent Neo-Malthusian thinker who argued that Earth's carrying capacity would be exceeded, leading to widespread famine and population decline. He advocated for population control measures to prevent this scenario.

Focuses on improving economic and social conditions (e.g., education, healthcare) to address population issues, believing that development itself helps reduce population growth.

Argues that fair distribution of wealth and resources is crucial to address poverty and inequality, which are seen as key drivers of population growth.

The belief that population growth is often a consequence of poverty, not the primary cause of development challenges. Development is seen as the solution, as better living standards lead to lower birth rates.

A perspective that views sustainable development and population growth as fundamentally incompatible, often associated with environmental activism.

Neo-Malthusianism may be inaccurate in some cases, as high population growth is not always the primary constraint on development. Other factors like resource management and environmental challenges can be equally important.

Technology, while helpful in enhancing resource efficiency, cannot solve all resource scarcity issues. There are inherent limits to what technology can achieve, highlighting the importance of addressing other factors.

Dealing with population growth requires considering a complex web of factors, including social, economic, and environmental aspects. A singular focus on population may not provide a complete solution.

An economic theory that suggests increased population density can lead to agricultural intensification, as farmers adopt more efficient techniques to support a larger population.

A situation where population growth is outpacing the resources available, leading to a decline in living standards and potential social unrest.

The process of increasing the yield of a given piece of land through improved agricultural practices, such as irrigation, fertilizers, and crop rotation.

A region in West Africa, particularly in Northern Nigeria, that has experienced successful agricultural intensification due to high population density.

A district in Kenya that has shown successful sustainable development despite high population density.

A practice where land is left fallow for a period of time to restore soil fertility.

The use of more labor, technology or capital to increase productivity from existing land.

The process of expanding agricultural land by bringing new land into cultivation.

The increase in population density and population growth rate.

Technological advancements that significantly increased agricultural productivity, particularly in Asia during the 1960s.

The process of bringing new land into cultivation, often by shortening fallow periods.

The extent to which people rely on a commercial market for goods and services.

The infrastructure, technology, and resources that enable businesses to operate efficiently.

The idea that population growth is not the primary driver of development, and other factors like social organization, economic systems, resource availability, and governance play a more significant role.

The ability of governments to provide security and essential services, such as education and healthcare, is crucial for development.

Technological advancements, including new energy sources and pollution control methods, can contribute to economic growth and address environmental concerns.

The growth in wealth often did not translate into equal distribution among the population, highlighting the issue of inequality.

The global community has become increasingly aware of the need to manage resources and population growth sustainably.

Contrary to earlier predictions of widespread famine due to population growth, global food security improved in the 21st century.

Population growth, particularly in the early stages of civilization, can drive innovation and technological development to meet the needs of a growing population.

The Club of Rome's prediction of an imminent fuel crisis due to resource scarcity proved inaccurate, highlighting the dynamic and complex relationship between resources and population.