Population

In 2008, I heard from a fellow undergraduate that population control was a major issue.  In fact, it was such a big issue that it was labeled non-partisan.  And when you can find a non-partisan issue, it's relatively easy to fix when you get the word out, right?  Right?  I know you're probably wondering why I'm asking and not telling you.  It's because the answer to that question is case by case.

I have been reminded of this issue more and more frequently throughout my life.  It comes up in history class, it comes up in philosophy, it comes up in domestic politics, and most recently it was brought up in a National Geographic video that I'd like to share, (don't worry it's short and you don't have to pay very close attention, but I think you will):

http://www.wimp.com/worldpopulation/

In other words, there are too many people in the world, given our ways of life.

The main concern I have after hearing all of these perspectives is that there is one thing standing in the way of progress, let alone resolution, for this situation in the United States.  The U. S. Constitution keeps legislation from doing things like fertility capping (as in China) or sterilization (as has been done in India).  These would impose inhibition of our declared right to pursue happiness, and in some cases completely violate human rights.

Now, what can be done with this non-partisan issue?  We're already doing it.  While government may not be good at most things, it has recognized this issue and made it a priority at both state and federal levels.  Illegal immigration, migration, and legal immigration is such a huge issue that this non-partisan issue is becoming partisan.  How?  Immigrants (such as those of Hispanic and Asian heritage) are becoming a larger and larger voting population, which translates into a louder voice for politicians to hear.  And as soon as one side took a stand on the non-partisan issue, the other side saw the opportunity to secure almost guaranteed votes on the growing minority population (which is projected to swell into the majority in a very near future).

In fewer words, the government recognized the detriment of overpopulation, attempted to do something about it, and it got infinitely and irrevocably worse unless something else changes.  We are currently headed toward one of many possible worst-case scenarios in which our pandering exclusively to votes rather than responsible and rational thought is becoming an acceptable political strategy.

I could end this with a joke or some reassurance, but I actually want people to stop what they're doing and think about this, even if you don't agree with anything I've said.