Good point. I agree that the threat of “dying out” or of falling below some critical population threshold would probably be sufficient motivation for space colonies to avoid terminal decline. I’m less convinced that the more abstract theory that higher population ⇒ better QOL for all would significantly alter individuals’ (selfish) cost/benefit calculations about raising a child.
Good point. I agree that the threat of “dying out” or of falling below some critical population threshold would probably be sufficient motivation for space colonies to avoid terminal decline. I’m less convinced that the more abstract theory that higher population ⇒ better QOL for all would significantly alter individuals’ (selfish) cost/benefit calculations about raising a child.
The government could internalize this positive externality by providing incentives, like this.
It could try, but so far no government has managed to meaningfully reverse fertility rates. Not many have tried very hard, so it may be possible.