There are many misconceptions surrounding the effects and causes of population growth. Since the human population size is such a fundamental factor for any human impact, it is important to fight misrepresentation to ensure that population discussions are not neglected or skewed. Provided below are some articles that break down myths and misconceptions about population.
Myths about Overpopulation
This text by Peter Uetz focuses on breaking down myths surrounding how population growth drives climate change. It disproves the idea that we will be able to continue to feed a growing population without any problems and highlights the misconception that we need more young people to drive innovation to combat climate change. Uetz also questions the notion that consumption and population can be treated as separate issues.
Five myths about population, aging and environmental sustainability
A blog by Jane O’Sullivan, Francesco Ricciardi, and Susann Roth that tackles five common myths: that technology will solve our problems, that all population programmes oppose human rights, that population growth is necessary for a healthy economy, that population aging is a major threat to society, and that the world can sustain infinite growth.
Ten things you might not know about population
This blog by Lucia Tamburino debunks some common misconceptions about population. Some examples of misconceptions covered are the notion that the economy requires population growth and that all population policies are coercive. It also highlights how population growth is the main driver of deforestation as well as how refusing to discuss population contributes to the lack of action on the millions of unintended pregnancies and unmet contraceptive needs worldwide.
Popular Ageing Myths Debunked: A sustainable future cannot be reached through pursuit of youthfulness
The talking points from a symposium held by Jane O’Sullivan about population ageing. It covers topics such as what population projections actually show, how we should define a successful society, and whether the costs of depopulation is actually higher than the costs of continued growth.
