Why is the human population growing at such a rapid pace?
Humans use K-selected life strategies:
(Carter-Edwards et al, 550)
Many advances in technology occurred in a short period of time and dramatically affected human population growth. Humans were able to increase their food supply by improved agricultural methods and domestication of animals. Breakthrough in medicine successfully treated for once-fatal illnesses. Better shelter and improvements in food storage also allowed humans to increase the carrying capacity of their environment.
(Carter-Edwards et al, 551)
Population grows geometrically (1, 2, 4, 8 …), rather than arithmetically (1, 2, 3, 4 …), which is why the numbers can increase so quickly. The rate of growth applies to an ever-expanding population, so the number of people added with each doubling goes up, even though the rate of growth is constant at 1.2% each year.
(“Human Population”)
- Have a small number of offspring
- Begin reproduction later in life
- Provide a great deal of parental care to their offspring
- Have a relatively long life span
(Carter-Edwards et al, 550)
Many advances in technology occurred in a short period of time and dramatically affected human population growth. Humans were able to increase their food supply by improved agricultural methods and domestication of animals. Breakthrough in medicine successfully treated for once-fatal illnesses. Better shelter and improvements in food storage also allowed humans to increase the carrying capacity of their environment.
(Carter-Edwards et al, 551)
Population grows geometrically (1, 2, 4, 8 …), rather than arithmetically (1, 2, 3, 4 …), which is why the numbers can increase so quickly. The rate of growth applies to an ever-expanding population, so the number of people added with each doubling goes up, even though the rate of growth is constant at 1.2% each year.
(“Human Population”)