Population Bomb

Based of Paul Elrich's essay, "The Population Bomb"


In Erlich’s Population Bomb, possible “solutions” to the population problem are introduced. These solutions (which Erlich makes a point to note were suggested by not him, but his colleagues), were what most rational people would consider extreme. In any discussion about population control, “extreme” measures must be considered. The degree of extremity is often exaggerated due to the fact that human lives are being essentially bargained for; any solution that is proposed will be considered harsh because the entire point is to lead to an overall decrease in the human population. There are two categories of solutions; prezygotic and postzygotic. Prezygotic measures are less extreme, and decrease the population growth rate by decreasing the birth rate. One such measure discussed in the reading is introducing a chemical into the water system that would lead to sterility. The book also suggests a postzygotic measure (involving decreasing the population growth rate by increasing the death rate), essentially advocating for starvation in the third world. As of right now, it is still within the realm of human ability to take voluntary measures to reduce population that are not this extreme. However, if action is not taken soon, extreme measures will be taken for us.

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