In 2001 the UN had revised its past world population growth prognoses. Already in 2043 and not in 2052, nine billion people will live on earth. (Coiplet, 2001, Homepage). These prognoses are based on the fact that since 1960 the population of the world are more than doubled. In this rapid growth many positive developments are reflected, which improved the life circumstances of many people considerably. Thus the number of child deaths sank drastically worldwide. The life expectancy of 48 years in 1955 has risen to 65 years in 2000. People are on the average healthier and better nourished than ever before. The part of people, who suffer on chronic malnutrition in developing countries, sank in this period from approximately forty to twenty per cent. (DSW, 2001a, Homepage) Simultaneously the natural resources have changed dramatically. Water and air pollution increase as well as the overuse of farmland and the global warming. Besides the world population development creates new social areas of conflict (migration and refugee movements, poverty, etc.), as well as new political and economical conflicts (resource wars, risen gab between poverty and wealth, etc.). This essay examines the development of the world population, their effects on the poverty and malnutrition, the causes of the population explosion and the present national and international activities and projects to contain this problem. [...]
Table of Contents
- Is the world overpopulated?
- Consequences of the population of over - hunger
- Causes of the overpopulation
- Measures on national and international level
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay examines the relationship between world population growth, poverty, and malnutrition. It explores the causes of rapid population increase and analyzes national and international efforts to address these interconnected issues. The essay does not offer definitive conclusions but instead presents an overview of the complexities involved.
- The impact of population growth on poverty and malnutrition.
- The demographic transition theory and its applicability to developing countries.
- Malthusian theory and its relevance to contemporary challenges.
- The role of food distribution and agricultural practices in hunger.
- National and international strategies for population control and poverty reduction.
Chapter Summaries
Is the world overpopulated?: This chapter introduces the rapid growth of the world's population since 1960, highlighting positive developments like decreased child mortality and increased life expectancy, while also acknowledging negative consequences such as environmental degradation and social conflicts. It introduces the demographic transition theory, comparing the European experience to the situation in developing countries, emphasizing significant differences in economic and social contexts that make a simple application of the theory problematic. The chapter questions whether the demographic transition will unfold similarly in developing nations, given the lack of pre-existing agricultural and industrial revolutions and limited migration opportunities. The chapter lays the groundwork for exploring the complex relationship between population growth and its multifaceted consequences.
Consequences of the population of over - hunger: This section delves into the consequences of population growth, focusing specifically on hunger. It contrasts Malthus's theory of exponential population growth outpacing linear food production with the reality of sufficient food production but inequitable distribution. The chapter highlights the significant disparities in food access, where a small percentage of the population consumes a disproportionate share of resources. It examines the impact of inefficient and unsuitable agricultural practices in developing countries, emphasizing the cultivation of cash crops for export over food crops for local consumption. The chapter also touches upon the influence of external factors like war and political mismanagement on regional hunger crises, concluding with an emphasis on the moral and societal implications of hunger.
Causes of the overpopulation: This chapter identifies the key drivers of overpopulation, including lack of access to family planning, a young age structure, and improved healthcare leading to decreased mortality rates. It explores the complex interplay of cultural, religious, and economic factors contributing to high birth rates in various societies. The chapter emphasizes the role of women and their socioeconomic empowerment in influencing family size and highlights the connection between poverty, education, and reproductive choices. The chapter sets the stage for examining interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of overpopulation.
Keywords
Population growth, poverty, malnutrition, demographic transition, Malthusian theory, food security, family planning, women's empowerment, sustainable development, international cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this text?
This text examines the complex relationship between world population growth, poverty, and malnutrition. It explores the causes of rapid population increase and analyzes national and international efforts to address these interconnected issues. The text provides an overview of the complexities, rather than offering definitive conclusions.
What are the key themes explored in this text?
Key themes include the impact of population growth on poverty and malnutrition; the demographic transition theory and its applicability to developing countries; Malthusian theory and its relevance to contemporary challenges; the role of food distribution and agricultural practices in hunger; and national and international strategies for population control and poverty reduction.
What does the text say about whether the world is overpopulated?
The text acknowledges the rapid growth of the world's population since 1960, noting both positive developments (decreased child mortality, increased life expectancy) and negative consequences (environmental degradation, social conflicts). It introduces the demographic transition theory, comparing the European experience to developing countries and highlighting the complexities of applying this theory to diverse contexts. The text questions whether the demographic transition will unfold similarly in developing nations, given differing economic and social factors.
How does the text address the issue of hunger?
The text connects population growth to hunger, contrasting Malthus's theory with the reality of sufficient food production but inequitable distribution. It highlights disparities in food access and inefficient agricultural practices in developing countries, emphasizing the cultivation of cash crops for export over food crops for local consumption. External factors like war and political mismanagement are also considered, alongside the moral and societal implications of hunger.
What are the causes of overpopulation according to this text?
The text identifies several key drivers of overpopulation: lack of access to family planning, a young age structure, and improved healthcare leading to decreased mortality rates. It explores the interplay of cultural, religious, and economic factors contributing to high birth rates and emphasizes the role of women's socioeconomic empowerment in influencing family size. The connection between poverty, education, and reproductive choices is also highlighted.
What solutions or strategies are discussed in the text?
The text mentions national and international strategies for population control and poverty reduction, although specific details of these strategies are not elaborated upon in the provided summary. The emphasis is on understanding the complex interplay of factors contributing to population growth and its consequences.
What are the keywords associated with this text?
Keywords include: Population growth, poverty, malnutrition, demographic transition, Malthusian theory, food security, family planning, women's empowerment, sustainable development, and international cooperation.
What is included in the provided preview of the text?
This preview includes the title, table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Olesja Büchner (Autor:in), 2003, Population growth and poverty, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/22134
