JOURNAL ARTICLE

Athwart.

  • Published In: National Review, 2026, v. 78, n. 5. P. 48 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: LILEKS, JAMES 3 of 3

Abstract

The article reflects on the cultural impact of Paul Ehrlich’s 1968 book *The Population Bomb*, which predicted global famines and societal collapse due to overpopulation. It describes how these apocalyptic scenarios, including global cooling, oil shortages, and biblical catastrophes, shaped the anxieties of late-20th-century youth, despite many predictions proving premature. The piece also notes a shift in contemporary concerns from fears of overpopulation to issues related to population decline and demographic changes. Overall, it highlights how Ehrlich’s work influenced environmental discourse and public imagination during the 1970s. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:National Review. 2026/05, Vol. 78, Issue 5, p48
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0028-0038
  • Accession Number:192366775
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