Malthus Theory and its Challenge

Thomas Malthus, an English economist, put forward a theory in 1798 known as the Malthusian theory of population. According to him, population growth would always surpass the growth of resources, leading to famine, disease, and poverty. He argued that population growth occurs exponentially while the resources grow linearly, leading to a crisis that would eventually reduce the population.

However, in the 20th century, some economists challenged Malthus' theory, arguing that economic growth could outstrip population growth. They believed that technological advancements and innovation could lead to increased productivity and resource availability, which could sustain a growing population.

The Challenge to Malthus Theory

The challenge was based on the following arguments:

1. Technological Advancements: The economists argued that technological advancements could help increase productivity, leading to increased resource availability. For instance, the introduction of the Green Revolution led to the production of new crop varieties that increased crop yields, leading to food availability.

2. Innovation: The theorists believed that innovation could lead to the creation of new resources, which could help sustain a growing population. For instance, the development of renewable energy sources reduced the dependency on non-renewable energy sources, leading to increased resource availability.

3. Increased Education and Awareness: The economists argued that increased education and awareness could lead to better family planning, reducing population growth.

4. Economic Growth: The theorists believed that economic growth could lead to increased job opportunities and income, leading to improved living standards, reducing population growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Malthusian theory of population was challenged by the economists who believed that economic growth could outstrip population growth. They argued that technological advancements, innovation, increased education and awareness, and economic growth could help sustain a growing population.

Malthus theory was challenged by theorists. This theory claimed that economic growth could outstrip the population growth.
Therefore option a is correct.