Is over population the principal problem of humanity?

Answer 1

Well, considering that we'll be at 10 billion souls in 50 years at our current rate of growth, mostly in the third world countries. There'll be zero fossil fuels, zero coal and other natural resources. Wars will be fought over water and global warming will be in full swing. So i would have to say that over population will be a major problem..

Will technology save the day? ....doubtful, Will we change our ways to avoid the impending train wreck?....not likely. Will there be some cataclysmic event that will bring us back down to more sustainable levels, say 3 billion?....probably.

Answer 2

No it most certainly isn't.

And, I might add, I find this current trend to support this viewpoint the most insidious aspect of shifting public opinion since Hitler started his ravings about the 'Jewish Problem' in the 1930's.

Then it was just a rallying cry for the German people, who had been severely repressed after the Treaty of Versailles at the end of WW I, and were responsive to the idea of a 'scapegoat'. The sinister difference now is that this trend seems to be worldwide, and no-one seems to realise the consequences of saying there are 'too many people'.

If there are 'too many people', then what is the logical 'solution' ? Sounds like we need to get rid of a few, doesn't it ? And if we need to get rid of a few, who is going to decide which 'few' we are going to get rid of ? And how ?

OK, enough of that cr*p. You get the point.

The other thing is that this planet/ecosystem could support ten times the population we have now...easily, probably a hundred, if we really got our sh*t together and elimated greed in all it's nasty little forms.

The proof ? Look at Hong Kong, the most densely populated area on earth.About 23,000 people per sq. mile the last time I checked. And all living very well, hustle and bustle, busy, busy, busy.............but all getting along just fine.

Do the mathematics, how many square miles of habitable land worldwide ? About 52 million, let's give the Hong Kong people a 50 % margin because they are used to it and round it down to 10,000 per square mile.

Answer : 52 billion

Our current level is around 6 billion, so we can multiply at least eight-fold before we even have to think about worrying too much.

No, over-population is not even close to being the principal problem of humanity.

I think that greed is the principle problem of humanity.

Answer 3

I must admit the of all the problems facing humankind, world population growth is one that requires our immediate attention. It isn't unique, however, in that like most concerns it can be spoken of as an issue that has a variety of potential solutions available to ease the worst of it, and that the choice of a strategy falls somewhat neatly into the real problem... the basket called world government.

The problem of population control of itself must be seen as one that is reasonably within our control and as a societal problem can be managed satisfactorily if as a world we can come into agreement on the widest scale over the issue. Management of the birth rate in comparison to and with consideration for life expectancy is not beyond our reach. It can be monitored and it can be successfully held in check.

I would not conclude, therefore, that over-population is the principle problem of humanity, but that it could become such if its need for management controls cannot find efficient cooperation between nations. Our greatest problem remains not how to manage this or any other concern but rather "who" shall do the managing and "who" shall set the policy.

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Answer 4

No. It is actually not as big a problem as it once was. Many nations are actually shrinking in population. Japan for example has the opposite problem. Certain countries, esp. were sex education and birth control options are few still have problems with overpopulation. Last I checked, India was the worst.

There is a good documentary on the issue I believe it is called "Life in Balance" or something.

Answer 5

This is an essential problem in the world today. Beginning with the advent of agriculture and food surplus. The hunter-gatherer we once were vanished. Jobs and duties became delegated to individuals - opening free time for study of the arts, humanities, and philosophy. However, with the current over population, you get people who cannot find their 'purpose'. This feeling of uselessness leads to low self esteem, and feeling of worthlessness whic in turn leads to crime, and poverty. It is no secret that when a person feels utilized to their fullest, that person can interact in society as a positive influence.

Answer 6

Population has been increasing since the species began, and we always find room.
The problem is global warming and that our leaders fail to make it a priority We could with present technology be pulling carbon out of the atmosphere and using other power sources than carbon burning.
And like the greatest mind of today says, we need to seriously start to colonize space.

Answer 7

Not even close. The principal problem of humanity is the fact that we don't all treat others the way we wish to be treated.

Answer 8

I don't think so. I think the principal problem of humanity is illiteracy. Literacy is the key to breaking the poverty cycle and leads to a better life for all.

Answer 9

No, over-population is not, but it is also a problem. The major one is the absence of a spiritual philosophy that is devoid of dogmas in the different fields of life i.e. economics, spirituality, sociology, etc.

Answer 10

I would say no, the whole point to a species is to reproduce and expand thier race. The real principle problem is remaining on the planet without seeking new horizons.