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Thomas MalthusA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
208
Book • Nonfiction
18th century
1798
Adult
18+ years
An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus, first published anonymously in 1798, argues that human population grows exponentially while food production increases linearly, inevitably leading to overpopulation and insufficient food supply. Despite controversies, its influence extended to foundational theorists like Darwin, Engels, and Marx, though modern critics dismiss Malthus's underestimation of technological advancements.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
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Thomas Malthus' An Essay on the Principle of Population provides a thought-provoking analysis of population dynamics and resource limitations. Many commend its foundational impact on economics and demography, though critics argue its predictions are overly pessimistic. While some theories remain outdated, its historical significance and influence on policy endure.
Readers fascinated by economic theory, social policy, and historical perspectives on population dynamics will enjoy An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus. Comparable works include Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations and John Stuart Mill's Principles of Political Economy.
1,969 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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208
Book • Nonfiction
18th century
1798
Adult
18+ years
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