Abstract

This article outlines the theories, beliefs, and arguments of the two basic camps in the debate about the relationship between population growth and sustainable development. It makes clear that at issue is not only a hyper-complex scientific dispute but also a political and ideological confrontation. First, using recent statistics, the article puts the debate in its demographic context by outlining the dynamics behind the population explosion. Then, the contradicting camps are introduced and their ideas and beliefs about the consequences of population growth for economy and ecology are described, Finally, the article takes a stand in the complex and interdisciplinary, but indeed highly topical debate.

How to Cite:

Van Bavel, J., (2004) “De wereldbevolkingsexplosie en duurzame ontwikkeling: een veldoverzicht”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 25(2), 227–245. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86607