How do Malthusian and Boserupian theories relate to stewardship?

Malthusian and Boserupian theories relate to stewardship through their differing views on population growth and resource management.

The Malthusian theory, proposed by Thomas Robert Malthus, suggests that population growth will outpace the ability to produce enough resources, leading to societal collapse. This theory implies a need for stewardship, or careful management of resources, to prevent such a collapse. Malthusians argue that we need to control population growth and use resources more sustainably to avoid depleting them. This perspective aligns with the concept of stewardship as it emphasises the responsibility of humans to manage resources wisely and sustainably.

On the other hand, the Boserupian theory, proposed by Ester Boserup, posits that population growth can lead to innovation and increased productivity, thus negating the negative effects of resource scarcity. Boserupians believe that as populations grow, humans will find new ways to increase resource production and efficiency, thereby overcoming any limitations. This theory also relates to stewardship, but in a different way. It suggests that human ingenuity and technological advancement are key to managing resources effectively. Therefore, stewardship in a Boserupian context would involve fostering innovation and encouraging sustainable technological development.

Both theories, while differing in their views on population growth and resource scarcity, highlight the importance of stewardship. They emphasise the need for careful management of resources, whether through controlling population growth and promoting sustainable use (Malthusian), or encouraging innovation and technological advancement (Boserupian). These theories provide valuable perspectives on how we can act as stewards of our planet, managing its resources in a way that ensures their availability for future generations.