The Malthusian Theory, proposed by Thomas Robert Malthus in the late 18th century, posited that population growth tends to outstrip the capacity of resources, leading to inevitable checks such as famine, disease, and war. While Malthus’ predictions were rooted in the realities of his time, the question arises: has the Malthusian Theory been discredited in contemporary times? The answer is nuanced, as advancements in technology, agricultural practices, and resource management have altered the dynamics of population-resource relationships. This essay aims to explore the relevance of the Malthusian Theory in the modern context, examining both its merits and shortcomings, and ultimately, determining whether it remains a valid framework for understanding global demographic and environmental challenges.
Answer
Thomas Robert Malthus came up with his theory of population in 1798, which was released in the journal “An Essay on the principle of Population “.
Has it been discredited?
Yes, because:
- New methods of social control (preventive checks) – Eg. delayed marriages, moral restraints
- Contemporary scientific revolution
- Medical revolution – ex. Vasectomy, tubectomy, contraceptives
- Subsistence – ex. GM crops, HYV crops, fertilizers
- Contemporary perception about children as social drive, rather than biological drive
- Empowerment of women through education, employment, and awareness about reproductive rights have influenced fertility rates (also said by Arsene Dumont, DM Smith)
- Government interventions. Eg. Family planning policies.
- This theory has also been discredited by Marx No, because:
- Contemporary food security issues due to war. Eg. Russia vs Ukraine.
- Operations of pandemic (eg. Covid 19, challenges emerging due to climate change) as positive
check. - Issues of hunger, and stunting in third-world countries led by drought are still seen.
- Regional disparities concerning global Food production still exist.
Malthus’s Theory, tested by the limits to the growth model also says that Malthus’s idea cannot be ignored. Stop and Go Determinism, and sustainable development concepts also validate Malthus.
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