Population growth is at the root of many serious environmental problems. from the ancient babylonians thousands of years ago, to thomas malthus two centuries ago, to present day neo- malthusians, humans seem to possess an awareness of earth's limitations in the face of growing populations. today, our ability to accurately quantify, monitor, and control population growth is very sophisticated. we can measure growth and make predictions about world growth with mathematical and computer models. can we prevent disaster?

despite dire predictions in the past, humans still inhabit earth. a few economists would argue that this is because
-malthus's measurements were inaccurate
-malthus overestimated the earth's environmental sensitivity
-technological developments have alleviated some of the strain on earth's resources
-space exploration has revealed new frontiers
-world population growth has been slower than expected