50 pages 1 hour read

Thomas Malthus

An Essay on the Principle of Population

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1798

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus, first published anonymously in 1798, argues that human population grows exponentially while food production increases linearly, inevitably leading to overpopulation and insufficient food supply. Despite controversies, its influence extended to foundational theorists like Darwin, Engels, and Marx, though modern critics dismiss Malthus's underestimation of technological advancements.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Thomas Malthus' An Essay on the Principle of Population provides a thought-provoking analysis of population dynamics and resource limitations. Many commend its foundational impact on economics and demography, though critics argue its predictions are overly pessimistic. While some theories remain outdated, its historical significance and influence on policy endure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read An Essay on the Principle of Population?

Readers fascinated by economic theory, social policy, and historical perspectives on population dynamics will enjoy An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus. Comparable works include Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations and John Stuart Mill's Principles of Political Economy.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Business / Economics

Philosophy

Sociology

Themes

Society: Economics

Period

Age of Enlightenment

Genre

Philosophy

Classic Fiction