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According to Willis, what are some of the similarities and differences between Limits to Growth and Malthus' early theories? What does 'neo-malthusian' refer to?

a) Similarities in advocating unlimited growth, neo-Malthusian refers to updated theories
b) Differences in perspectives on population, neo-Malthusian refers to a modern approach
c) Similarities in emphasizing resource limits, neo-Malthusian refers to a new perspective
d) Differences in addressing technology, neo-Malthusian refers to outdated views

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Limits to Growth and Malthus' theories both highlight resource limitations as a constraint on human population growth; however, they differ in their approach to technology. Neo-Malthusians adopt a modern take on Malthus' idea, emphasizing the environmental and social impacts of unrestrained growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Willis, Limits to Growth and Malthus' early theories both emphasize the potential constraints on human expansion due to resource limits. The primary differences between the two relate to their perspectives on technology's role in overcoming these limits. Malthus believed that food production would not keep pace with population growth, which would lead to Malthusian disasters such as famine, disease, and war, while Limits to Growth used computer models to predict resource use hitting absolute ceilings, potentially leading to global crises.

The term 'neo-Malthusian' refers to a modern approach that builds upon Malthus' theory, suggesting that unchecked population growth could lead to environmental destruction, resource-based conflicts, and a need for active measures such as birth control to prevent disaster.

Therefore, the correct answer from the provided options would be c) Similarities in emphasizing resource limits, neo-Malthusian refers to a new perspective.

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