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Malthusianism Versus Libertarianism:An Interdisciplinary Comparative Analysis On Population, Natural Resources, And Migration Theoretical Issues

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  • Cristian Manolachi

    (Bucharest University of Economic Studies)

Abstract

In the last five decades, the intellectual world has taken two sides in the public debate on the sensitive issues of economic growth, population growth, natural resources scarcity, and free migration, one pessimistic (Malthusian) and the other optimistic (libertarian). The aim of this paper is to trace back the intellectual origins, be they economic, historical, philosophical, or even in the field of biology, of these contemporary concerns. Therefore, the question that arises is whether we can rely on the gloomy predictions of Thomas Malthus, the law of diminishing returns, and the idea that a growing population will put overwhelming pressure on natural resources?! Or shall we rely on the arguments of his more recent challenger, Julian Simon (1996), who shows that a larger population will necessarily add more innovative minds, and that accumulated knowledge and innovation will more than compensate for the so-called law of diminishing returns, providing a plentiful existence for humankind?! Next, we will examine the arguments of intellectuals who have dealt with the problems of population, natural resources, and migration, Malthus’s opponents, and admirers alike. We seek to bring to the table a fresh perspective on the subject through interdisciplinary comparative analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Cristian Manolachi, 2024. "Malthusianism Versus Libertarianism:An Interdisciplinary Comparative Analysis On Population, Natural Resources, And Migration Theoretical Issues," Romanian Economic Business Review, Romanian-American University, vol. 19(3), pages 7-21, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:rau:journl:v:19:y:2024:i:3:p:7-21
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    References listed on IDEAS

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