A ballooning world population will apply additional burdens to the natural
environment. This is probably unarguable unless we see some pretty magical
technological advances soon. However if we see population control as a
solution how do we then decide the 'right' number of people and the
'right`' distribution of them round the globe. By any measure - population
density, carrying capacity of the land etc- the UK is possibly over
populated. What do we do? Reduce the population to a global average or
require that 'other people' accept different standards?
I have trouble therefore being too enthusiastic in encouraging reproductive
restraint on others. It seems to suggest that those whose reproduction we
wish to see controlled are different from us. It could also be seen to be a
'for export only' type of value system.
From what I understand lower birth rates are a consequence of improved
ecomomic conditions not a cause. Deal with poverty and perhaps population
control will, in time, follow as a spontaneous choice not as as the result
of an externally applied pressure. If in the short term this economic well
being increases the population - better and more secure diet, health care
etc- perhaps we have to accept this in the name of equity between peoples.
Regards Paul K
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