Lives Well Lived DEAN SPEARS: the depopulation of humanity
Jul 10, 2025
Dean Spears, an economic demographer and co-author of 'After the Spike,' delves into the future of global population trends. He discusses the likelihood of depopulation, challenging fears of overpopulation. Spears highlights the ethical implications of reducing population and advocates for technology as a solution to environmental issues. He also examines the dynamics in sub-Saharan Africa, immigration's role in population changes, and the philosophical 'repugnant conclusion' regarding quality versus quantity of life, making a compelling case for reevaluating societal choices.
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Global Depopulation Likely Future
- The world population is projected to peak before the century ends and then decline indefinitely.
- Depopulation is now the most likely future, driven by falling birth rates globally, including in populous areas like India and potentially Africa.
Population Reduction Not Climate Solution
- Environmental progress comes from changing human destructive actions, not fewer people.
- Depopulation is too slow a solution for climate change; urgent emission reductions and technology are needed.
Impact of Kangaroo Mother Care
- Kangaroo mother care, involving skin-to-skin contact, significantly improves newborn survival in poor settings.
- This low-cost intervention stabilizes newborns' temperature, supports breastfeeding, and is more affordable than intensive neonatal care.