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If the most critical current issue for humanity is the climate and environmental crisis then we must accept that letting the population decline is also the most
by mytailorisrich 1y ago
If the most critical current issue for humanity is the climate and environmental crisis then we must accept that letting the population decline is also the most beneficial thing we can do for a sustainable solution.
Of course the problem there is that our whole economic system and thinking relies on an ever growing population. We have reached the limit of that on this planet but it is easier to refuse to accept it than to face the challenge head on.
- more_corn 1y agoIt’s unclear that our economy will survive a declining population. Our economic system for the last few thousand years is predicated on the idea that money will be worth more later so investment in the future is worthwhile. Without growth that is no longer a given. (Granted we could achieve growth by lifting people out of poverty, but there might be a limit) I’m not arguing overpopulation or carrying capacity. I’m simply pointing out the economic side.
- mytailorisrich 1y agoThe economy will absolutely survive, not least because we have the technology for automation. There is no reason to suspect otherwise. Some sectors will be hit. For instance real estate because obviously overall demand will fall. So you may no longer sell your house at a profit... small price to pay in the grand scheme of things. Growth has to be seems per capita, not overall. It is possible to have a decreasing population while people keep getting better off individually. I would argue that we don't have much of a choice, anyway, as the enrlvironment will collapse and/or we will live dystopian lives if we keep growing the population (and probable even if the population stays at current levels).