Would the World Be Better Off With Fewer People?

1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with this essential question: Why does population size matter?

2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:

• What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether the world would be better off with fewer people. The issue is timely because, as economic conditions improve around the globe, people are having fewer children.)

• Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (Stephanie Feldstein studies how population growth relates to issues of sustainability. As an economist, Melissa Kearney is interested in how population size impacts economies and quality of life.) 

• Analyze Feldstein’s view. (Feldstein argues that the world would be better off with fewer people. She says that population growth has had a devastating effect on the environment. She also says that the reasons for falling birth rates are positive—including increased gender equality and more opportunity for women.)

• Analyze Kearney’s view. (Kearney argues that the world would be worse off with fewer people. She says that we need young people to sustain economic growth, spur innovation, and financially support social programs for the elderly. She advocates for more governmental support to incentivize having children.) 

4. Writing Prompt
In an essay, evaluate one of the debaters’ arguments. Assess whether the reasoning is valid and whether it’s supported with evidence. Point out biases or missing information.

5. Classroom Debate
Would the world be better off with fewer people? Have students use the authors’ ideas, as well as their own, in a debate.

6. Vote
Go online to vote in Upfront’s poll—and see how students across the country voted.