Comparison with stationary and very fast rates of population growth
shows modern population grwoth to have long-run positive effects on the
standards of living. This is Julian Simon's contention, and he provides
support for its validity in both more and less-developed countries. He
notes that since each person constitutes a burden in the short run,
whether population growth is judged good or bad depends on the
importance the short run is accorded relative to the long run.
The author first analyzes empirical data, formulating his conclusions
using simulation models. He then reviews our knowledge of the effect of
economic level upon population growth. A final section of his book
considers the framework of welfare economics and values within which
population policy decisions are now made. He finds that the implications
of policy decisions can prove inconsistent with the values that prompt
their recommendation.
Julian L. Simon is Professor of Economics and Business Administration at
the University of Illinois.
Originally published in 1977.
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