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Intelligence Squared

Is the Planet Running Out of People? with Paul Morland

Aug 19, 2024
In this enlightening discussion, Paul Morland, a leading UK thinker on demographics and author of No One Left, dives into the pressing crisis of global population decline. Joined by Eir Nolsøe from The Telegraph, they explore the urgent need for increased birth rates to combat labor shortages and rising debt. They tackle the cultural perceptions of parenthood, the historical context of birth rate policies, and the implications of aging populations on sustainability. This thought-provoking conversation reveals the complex challenges and potential solutions for our future.
45:23

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Declining birth rates pose significant economic challenges, including labor shortages and increased government debt amid aging populations globally.
  • Fostering a culture that values family and parenthood is essential for reversing low fertility trends and promoting demographic sustainability.

Deep dives

The Global Crisis of Declining Birth Rates

Many countries are experiencing alarming declines in birth rates, leading to alarming demographic crises. This issue transcends borders, affecting nations from various cultural backgrounds, including wealthy and poorer countries alike. The consequences of declining fertility rates are multifaceted, creating labor shortages and straining pension systems as the ratio of working-age individuals to retirees decreases. As population decline becomes a global phenomenon, it is crucial to acknowledge its impact on economies and societies as a whole.

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