Simon Vs Erhlich

Question 1

What is Julian Simon’s view on population?

Answer 1

Julian Simon believes that the more resources we use, the more we have the opportunity to find. With a higher population, we will find more resources faster than we consume them

Question 2

What is Paul Erhlich’s theory?

Answer 2

The current population needs to be more sustainable, as we are running out of resources. Climate change as a result of humans is affecting agriculture, and greed in the current generation means suffering for the next

Question 3

According to Erhlich, what can be done to increase sustainability?

Answer 3

• major consumption patterns need to change
• not everyone can have the same living standard
• a reduction in fertility, and thus, population

Question 4

What is the evidence Simon is suggesting?

Answer 4

• The price of natural resources have always gone down in human history
• All resources are becoming more available, rather than scarce