Population, resources, and poverty
Dasgupta, P.
Ambio 21(1): 95-101
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0044-7447 Document Number: 326197
This article applies the theory of resource allocation to rural households in poor countries to see what is meant by a population problem. It is argued by an appeal to evidence that there is a serious population problem in such regions, and that it is related synergistically to poverty, and possibly also to an erosion of the local environmental resource base. The problem lies in that very high fertility rates are experienced by women bearing risks of death that should now be unacceptable. An argument is sketched to show how the cycle of poverty and high fertility rates can perpetuate within a dynasty. It is concluded that an integrated population policy in poorer counter would include standard measures for the alleviation of poverty, such as increased female education and outside-work opportunities, improved credit and savings markets, and a ready availability of basic household needs, such as water and fuel.