Contrasting perspectives on population growth: Malthusian, neo-Malthusian and alternatives (Boserup, Simon)
Different thinkers disagree about whether population growth causes crisis or drives human progress. Malthus warned that population would outrun food supply. Boserup and Simon argued that people adapt and innovate to meet rising demand.
Real World
The Green Revolution in India during the 1960s–70s, championed by agronomist Norman Borlaug, increased wheat yields fourfold through new seed varieties and irrigation — exactly the kind of agricultural innovation Ester Boserup predicted population pressure would stimulate.
Exam Focus
In 'assess' or 'evaluate' questions, explicitly state which perspective is most convincing and why — a balanced answer without a judgement cannot reach the top band.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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