An Essay on the Principle of Population


Read by Geoffrey Edwards

(4.2 stars; 30 reviews)

In this foundational work, Thomas Malthus explores the relationship between population growth and resources, presenting a stark view of humanity's future. He argues that while population can grow exponentially, the means of subsistence—food and resources—can only increase arithmetically. This imbalance, he suggests, leads to inevitable crises.

Malthus delves into the implications of unchecked population growth, examining its effects on society, economy, and the environment. His insights challenge readers to consider the sustainability of human progress and the limits of our natural world.

Written in the late 18th century, this essay remains a critical text in discussions of demography, ecology, and social policy. Malthus's arguments continue to resonate, prompting reflection on contemporary issues such as overpopulation, resource management, and environmental sustainability.

Chapters

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00 Preface 4:13 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
01 Chapter 1 13:34 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
02 Chapter 2 15:40 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
03 Chapter 3 11:19 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
04 Chapter 4 13:06 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
05 Chapter 5 22:35 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
06 Chapter 6 10:32 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
07 Chapter 7 27:06 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
08 Chapter 8 11:43 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
09 Chapter 9 15:50 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
10 Chapter 10 29:50 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
11 Chapter 11 7:37 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
12 Chapter 12 27:37 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
13 Chapter 13 12:35 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
14 Chapter 14 12:05 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
15 Chapter 15 19:25 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
16 Chapter 16 18:20 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
17 Chapter 17 17:38 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
18 Chapter 18 20:27 Read by Geoffrey Edwards
19 Chapter 19 20:59 Read by Geoffrey Edwards

Reviews

a word of warning


(3 stars)

as interesting as the subject matter is it must be reminded that this essay was one of the foundational works that spearheaded the Eugenics/racial science movements. , andit is also a work cited quite frequently in Social Darwinism


(5 stars)

I was surprised how much more this was than a case for population control. It seems like more of a theological book on the inevitability of suffering and it's meaning. Helped me make peace with the toil of life.


(5 stars)

Well read, thanks! A lot more in the book than the general idea of Malthus

good book well read


(5 stars)

good book well read Malthus is cooler than I thought