Policy Press

The Biosphere and Human Society

Understanding Systems, Law, and Population Growth

By Larry D. Barnett

Published

Feb 28, 2023

Page count

146 pages

ISBN

978-1529232486

Dimensions

203 x 127 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Feb 28, 2023

Page count

146 pages

ISBN

978-1529232493

Dimensions

203 x 127 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Feb 28, 2023

Page count

146 pages

ISBN

978-1529232493

Dimensions

203 x 127 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press
The Biosphere and Human Society

Human population growth is a serious biospheric problem yet is largely overlooked. Because of the neglect of demography, environmental policies—while well-intentioned—are unlikely to succeed.

This book gives a concise review of world fertility rates and population growth, and offers a valuable summary of studies of the impact of overpopulation on the biosphere. In addition, the book explains key demographic variables to consider when formulating law and government policy relevant to childbearing, and it summarizes findings of social science research—findings that contradict popular assumptions about the impact of government interventions addressing the frequency of childbearing and immigration.

“Larry Barnett provides a lucid and thorough scientific analysis of our existential population crisis. He shows us how humanity must commit to change.” William J. Ripple, Oregon State University

“This is an important book which addresses a critical obstacle to the goal of a civilized future.” Ian Lowe, Griffith University

“The Biosphere and Human Society is surely a thought-provoking book and has a powerful message.” Mauro Galetti, São Paulo State University

Larry D. Barnett is Professor Emeritus at Delaware Law School, Widener University.

1. Paradigms, Environmentalism, and Demography

2. Impacts of Human Population Size and Growth: Recent Research

3. Government Efforts to Change the Frequency of Childbearing and Immigration

4. The Concept of a System: Ecology, Sociology, and the Social Side Effects of Law/Policy

5. Fertility Rates, Mean Age of Childbearing, and Childlessness

6. Concluding Remarks