Question

Thomas Malthus, the British clergyman turned economist, predicted that the planet would not be able to support the human population for long. His explanation was that human population grows at a geometric rate, while the food supply grows only at an arithmetic rate.
Which of the following, if true, would not undermine the thesis offered by Malthus?

• A. Population growth can be slowed down by the voluntary choices of individuals and not just by natural disasters.
• B. The capacity of the planet to feed a growing human population can be enhanced through biotechnological means.
• C. Human systems, and natural systems like food supply, follow natural laws of growth which have remained constant and will remain unchanged.
• D. Human beings can colonize other planetary systems on a regular and on-going basis to accommodate a growing population.

Hint:

In such problems, identify the external factors that might support or challenge the underlying theory and focus on whether those factors align with the original thesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The Correct Answer is (3). Malthus' theory assumes that food supply grows at an arithmetic rate and will eventually fall behind population growth. If food supply grows at a rate that remains constant and is unaffected by external factors (like biotechnological advances), it supports Malthus’ prediction, unlike the other statements which imply counteracting factors.