The Challenges of Global Population Growth: Theories, Policies, and the Case of Egypt

Abstract

Many developing countries are experiencing rapid population growth, and this phenomenon has the potential to cause various economic, social, and environmental problems in such countries. Accordingly, this paper will explore the issue of expanding populations and their affect on a country's socioeconomic status by examining various population growth theories and applying them to a specific country. First, we will consider global population growth in detail, followed by a summary of the various views as to whether larger populations affect economic development positively or negatively. Next, we will observe the case of Egypt, a highly populated country whose rapid growth has been a focus of government policy for the last six decades. Finally, given Egypt's example, we will reach a conclusion as to how other developing countries might best solve their own population growth problems and consequently better develop economically as well as socially.