It is interesting that in most Western countries, population isn't growing much or at all. In many European countries, there hasn't been significant population growth since the beginning of the 20th century. That shows zero population growth is possible (and all things considered, not that painful), but doesn't show how to achieve it globally.

One theory is that a high general standard of living and stable government are major contributors leading to low population growth. Perhaps we can relate it to the "selfish gene" idea: the poor and oppressed seek to maximize the possibility for passing on their genes by having many children, whereas the relatively wealthy with some freedom of self determination do not need such large families to increase the chances of their gene's survival.

Seen in this light, we could probably avoid radical and morally questionable measures of coercion. Instead, the solution could lie in promoting economic development, fair trade, and egalitarian rule.

Posted at May 17, 2008 5:05 AM in response to Over a Barrel

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't it an outright lie that Iran said they wanted to "wipe Israel off the map"? If I recall, it was more something along the lines that the Zionist government of Israel would simply someday cease to be, but that Israel itself would remain.

Is Juan Cole about?

Posted at May 15, 2008 4:47 PM in response to McCain Blasts Obama As Unfit To Defend America

You might remember that in 2004 Obama was working hard to get someone elected who had voted FOR the war, but was then running as someone AGAINST the war.

A little context does wonders...

Posted at May 15, 2008 3:20 AM in response to The American Conservative Argues FOR an Obama Presidency

Despite Buchanan's involvement, American Conservative is usually an excellent, balanced read. It carries on the more Burkeian/Libertarian tradition of conservativism, which has often provided a healthy counterbalance to the occasional excesses of left-wing thought.

To its great credit, the mag was against the Iraq invasion from the very beginning, with articles chronicling Douglas Feith's purging of intelligence officers from the Pentagon who opposed the Administration's storyline.

In the least it's a good way to remind oneself that not all Republicans are friggin' loonies.

Posted at May 15, 2008 3:15 AM in response to The American Conservative Argues FOR an Obama Presidency

Tell me about it. There are so many bugs -- I've been trying to update my profile for hours and keep getting error messages.

TPM, you're great, but your comment system is the worst I've ever used!

Posted at May 15, 2008 2:49 AM in response to Edwards: "Democratic Voters Have Made Their Choice, And So Have I"

I agree. Patrick Fitgerald for AG!!

Posted at May 15, 2008 2:23 AM in response to Edwards: "Democratic Voters Have Made Their Choice, And So Have I"

I think gotalife's sentiment can best be expressed thusly:

"God damn America for not electing Hillary!!"

Posted at May 15, 2008 2:09 AM in response to Edwards: "Democratic Voters Have Made Their Choice, And So Have I"

Wow, this response gets a big "RECOMMENDED" from me. Thanks, Mark

Posted at May 15, 2008 1:59 AM in response to Edwards: "Democratic Voters Have Made Their Choice, And So Have I"

It is the worst bill in our nations history

Nothing like a jolt of hyperbole to "make" an argument, eh?

The bill was going to pass with or without Obama's vote (it ultimately passed 74 - 26). Obama knew that, but made sure it contained substantial provisions promoting renewable resources and energy savings.

Admittedly, the bill contained bad stuff as well as good, but without Obama's efforts, a substantially worse version probably would have passed.

Posted at May 14, 2008 6:58 PM in response to Edwards Will Endorse Obama Today

Well I couldn't help but notice that Hillary had the help of a popular former President, and that wasn't even enough to win the nomination!

Posted at May 14, 2008 6:27 PM in response to Edwards Will Endorse Obama Today