1. Introduction to Modeling
Thomas Malthus Theory

2. Intro
For every model, you will need to complete a model sheet and place it into your notebook
Some models we will complete as a class, but most you will need to complete on your own
Left side of the model sheet is for visuals and further explanation

4. Name of the Model
Malthus Theory

5. Field of Study Where Used
Demography and Economics

6. Person Who Developed The Model
Thomas Malthus
1798, England
Malthus was a economist who studied population statistics and he made a prediction
Wrote The Principal of Population

7. Premise
The theory states that if population continued to growth at a high rate, the population will outrun food production.

8. Assumptions of the Model
Malthus assumed that the world’s population would continue to grow as rapidly as it was growing in Europe during the Industrial Revolution.
Humans would not make improvements on food production

9. Function of the Model
The increase of population will take place, if unchecked, in a geometric progression, while the means of subsistence will increase in only an arithmetic progression.
This will cause there to be too many people and not enough food.

11. Strengths of the Model
Explained well for population statistics and food production statistics in 1798
Still debated today, and applied to other resources besides food

12. Limitations/Weaknesses of the Model
Malthus Critic
Neo-Malthusian
Malthus based his theory on statistics from 1798
He did not consider that humans could slow their growth rate
He did not consider that humans could find better ways to grow food (techniques and technology)
Like Malthus’ theory but do not believe he took it far enough
Overpopulation will cause a shortage of food and other resources (water, air, etc.)

13. Current Uses of the Model
Theory is still debated and used today to explain the possible danger of overpopulation.
Theory has been debunked my Malthus critics, and by the slower growth rate and improved farming practices.

14. Illustrations
This area can be used for extra notes, visuals, or explanations.
The illustrations and explanations should go on the left page, accompanying the model sheet