Theory of Population

Definition

The Theory of Population, proposed by Thomas Malthus, suggests that population growth will always tend to outrun the food supply and that betterment of humankind is impossible without stern limits on reproduction.

Analogy

Think of it like a buffet restaurant. If too many people come in at once (population growth), there won't be enough food for everyone (food supply). To ensure everyone gets their share, the restaurant needs to control the number of customers coming in (limits on reproduction).

Related terms

Malthusianism: This term refers to the political/economic thought influenced by Thomas Malthus' ideas about population growth and economic development.

Demography: The statistical study of populations, especially human beings. It's like a census or survey for understanding who makes up a community or nation.

Famine: Extreme scarcity of food. This can happen when population outpaces available resources, as suggested in Malthus' theory.