With reference to the theories of population, which of the following statement is/are correct? 1. Malthusian theory of population applies only to over populated countries. 2. Optimum theory of population applies to all countries. Select the correct answer

The correct answer is D. Neither 1 nor 2.

The Malthusian theory of population states that population growth is always exponential, while food production can only increase arithmetically. This means that population will eventually outstrip food production, leading to famine and disease.

The optimum theory of population states that there is an ideal population size for a country, where the population is large enough to provide a workforce and a market for goods and services, but not so large that it puts a strain on resources.

Both of these theories are based on the assumption that population growth is a linear function of time. However, population growth is actually a complex phenomenon that is affected by a variety of factors, including economic development, access to education and healthcare, and cultural norms. As a result, it is difficult to say whether either of these theories is correct in general.

In the case of Malthusian theory, it is true that population growth can outstrip food production in some cases. However, this is not always the case. For example, in many developed countries, population growth has slowed or even stopped, while food production has continued to increase. This is due to a number of factors, including technological advances in agriculture, increased access to education and healthcare, and changes in cultural norms.

In the case of optimum theory, it is true that there is an ideal population size for a country. However, this ideal population size will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the country’s economic development, natural resources, and cultural norms. As a result, it is difficult to say whether there is a single optimum population size for all countries.

In conclusion, both Malthusian theory and optimum theory are based on the assumption that population growth is a linear function of time. However, population growth is actually a complex phenomenon that is affected by a variety of factors. As a result, it is difficult to say whether either of these theories is correct in general.