Character Quote by Thomas Malthus
“In a state therefore of great equality and virtue, where pure and simple manners prevailed, the increase of the human species would evidently be much greater than any increase that has been hitherto known.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Essay on the Principle of Population, 1798
If a society is perfectly virtuous and egalitarian, population would grow far faster than resources can support.
In simple terms: Virtue and equality boost population growth beyond limits.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of unchecked growth.
Themes
population
resource limits
virtue
equality
Mood
concerned
analytical
Type
economic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy planning
- family planning
- economic development
- environmental sustainability
Key Concepts
Malthusian theory
demographic transition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance moral ideals with sustainable growth?
- What policies can temper population spikes?
A Different Perspective
Assumes no technological progress or cultural change.
![“[P]opulation, when unchecked, goes on doubling itself every twenty-five years, or increases in a geometrical ratio. ... [T]he means of subsistence, under circumstances the most favorable to human industry, could not possibly be made to increase faster than in an arithmetical ratio.” quote by Thomas Malthus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/16b/thomas-malthus-7621_circumstances_p-opulation-when-unchecked-goes-on-doubl_324443.jpg)
