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Question: How can we compare and contrast the theories of populations in Thomas Malthus and Karl Marx?

16 Oct 2022,4:59 PM

 

How can we compare and contrast the theories of populations in Thomas Malthus and Karl Marx? Around what problems or ideas do their theories differ from each other, and what are the political implications of this difference? In your response, refer to the texts by Malthus, Eric Ross, and Ronald Meek.

 

RESOURCES:


1. https://www.marxists.org/reference/subject/economics/malthus/index.htm
(PLEASE USE CHAPTER 1-10 ONLY)

2. Ronald Meek, Karl Marx & Frederick Engels: Malthus selections (1954), Part One, “(ii) Marx and Engels on Malthus” (pp. 22-39); Part Two, “Marx and Engels on the Malthusian Theory of Populations”, pp. 53-105

3. Eric Ross, The Malthus Factor: Poverty, Politics and Population in Capitalist Development”, London: ZED Books, 1998, “Introduction” and Chapter 1, “Politics and Paradigms: The Origins of Malthusian Theory”

Expert answer

 

Thomas Malthus and Karl Marx are two of the most influential thinkers of the modern era. Though their ideas about populations differ in many ways, they share a common concern for the well-being of humanity.

 

Malthusian theory holds that populations grow exponentially while resources only grow linearly. This leads to a situation in which eventually there are not enough resources to go around, leading to widespread poverty and suffering. Marxian theory, on the other hand, posits that it is capitalism that ultimately causes poverty and suffering. Capitalism creates class distinctions which prevent workers from receiving the full value of their labor. This leads to exploitation and alienation, which are the root cause of poverty and suffering.

 

The political implications of these theories are significant. Malthusian theory has often been used to justify policies of population control, as it is seen as a way to prevent suffering. Marxian theory, on the other hand, has often been used to justify revolution, as it is seen as a way to overthrow the capitalist system that creates exploitation and alienation.

 

In conclusion, Thomas Malthus and Karl Marx are two very influential thinkers whose ideas about populations have had a major impact on the political landscape. Though their theories differ in many ways, they both share a concern for the well-being of humanity.

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