In his Essay on the Principle of Population, first published anonymously in 1798, British economist Thomas Robert Malthus (1766–1834) examined questions relating to population growth and, in particular, food supply. His frank discussion of issues ranging from supporting the poor to marriage and sexual restraint led to lasting controversy. Further, Malthus predicted that the increase in population caused by the Industrial Revolution would lead to famines, epidemics, and wars.
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Further Readings:
- Kates, Robert W. “Population, Technology, and the Human Environment: A Thread through Time.” Daedalus 125, no. 3 (1996): 1–29.
- Malthus, Thomas Robert. An Essay on the Principle of Population. Or a View of its Past and Present Effects on Human Happiness; with an Inquiry into our Prospects Respecting the Future Removal or Mitigation of the Evils which it Occasions. 6th edition. London: John Murray, 1826. First published 1798. E-book
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1798