Population: Key Issue 4
Why Might the World Face an Overpopulation Problem?
Rubenstein, pp. 66 - 77
● MALTHUS ON OVERPOPULATION
1. Complete the table below to describe the views and theories of various population theorists.
Thomas Malthus
Neo Malthusians
Critics of Malthus
2a. Where was Malthus right?
2b. In what way was Malthus mistaken?

DECLINING BIRTH RATES
3. What are the only two ways to bring the NIR down?
i.
ii.
4. What two strategies have proven successful to lower birth rates?
i.
ii.
4b. “Because of varied _______________ ___________________, the most effective methods (for
lowering birth rates) _______________ among countries.”
5. Take notes on important facts regarding the distribution of contraceptives.
6. Look at Figure 2-28: Where have strategies to reduce birth rates been most effective?
7. List four factors that influences family planning in different cultures.
8. Describe the opposition to family planning strategies.
● WORLD HEALTH THREATS
9. “Lower CBR’s have been responsible for ______________ _________ in most countries. However, in
some countries of _______________________ lower NIR’s have also resulted from ___________CDRs,
especially through the diffusion of ___________.”
6. What is “epidemiologic transition”?
7. Complete the table below with notes on the stages of epidemiologic transition.
(Genius Geographer Tip: Look at what people are dying of in a country, and it will tell you at which stage
of the demographic transition they are in.)
Stages 1 and 2
EPIDEMIOLOGIC TRANSITION
Stages 3 and 4
Possible Stage 5
Case Study – India versus China
Take notes on the different family-planning programs of China and India. Make sure to note their
effectiveness and effects.