Wk 2: Theorizing Demography

This module focuses on...

1. Weeks, CH3: Demographic Perspectives

2. Russell, C. and D.L. Poston. 2008. “Overpopulation.” In William A. Darity (Ed.), International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences (2nd ed), VI: 95-96.

3. Malakoff, D. 2011. “Are More People Necessarily a Problem?” Science 333, pp. 544-546.

4. “Nigeria’s Population Boom: A Problem, or Not?” The New York Times, April 23, 2012.

1. Demographic Transition Charts with Questions

1. Why do you think some scientists’ fears of global overpopulation found a receptive audience in the media, the public, and even among world leaders? What evidence did the scientists have to support their predictions of mass starvation?

2. Do you agree with Dr. Ehrlich that the rising global population still represents a catastrophic threat? Or any level of threat to human progress and sustainability?

3. Or, do you think population stagnation or reduction, like Japan and Germany currently face, actually presents a greater challenge in the future?