Problems of population theory

Abstract

Population theory is a domain of moral philosophy concerned with questions regarding the moral reasons for bringing people into existence or allowing them to die. This article examines various arguments put forward by different philosophers on these issues and identifies areas of agreement and disagreement. One area of contention is the claim that there can be no duty to future generations since they are not actual people. Several arguments against this claim are presented. Another area of debate concerns whether it is better to increase the population with the knowledge that the quality of life will be diminished, or to maintain the current population size or even reduce it. This raises questions about whether there is intrinsic value in creating new life and whether there can be an obligation to bring happy people into existence. The article also explores whether an appeal to rights could help solve some of the problems of population theory, and concludes that while formally admissible, this approach is ultimately implausible. – AI-generated abstract.