11/02/99

World Population

We entered the twentieth century with a population of less than two billion people and now, as we stand at the century's exit, world population is just over six billion. Six billion. It's hard to grasp what that means. I chose the following sites because they help explain both the number and its implications.

6 Billion and Beyond

"On October 12, 1999, Earth's population reached six billion. PBS traveled the globe talking to people about the population issues affecting their lives and countries." To make the issue real, a running counter ticks off current world population, and "babies born since you entered this page." Start at the world map, and choose from China, India, Italy, Kenya, Mexico, and USA. You'll discover statistics and personal stories from experts and officials, teens, working women, doctors, mothers and fathers.

6 Billion Human Beings

"Every second five people are born and two people die, a net gain of three people. At this rate, the world population is doubling every 40 years. However the United Nations estimates that we will only be 12 billion in 120 years. By visiting this Web site, you will understand why the world's population has exploded in recent years and why it might stabilize during the next century." This fascinating exhibit from the Musée de l'Homme of Paris, France, uses interactive features ("Tell me your age, and I'll tell you how many people were in the world when you were born.") to personalize your visit.

Day of 6 Billion

"Six billion neighbors. One neighborhood." Written for elementary and middle-school students and their teachers, Day of 6 Billion looks at how health care, education ("In many nations, more boys than girls receive a formal education.") and the environment are affected by population growth. Some families may object to the site's discussion of family planning and birth control.

Population Reference Bureau

"The number of young people under age twenty-five has more than doubled since the 1950s: from 1.3 billion to 2.9 billion in 2000. The decisions that today's youth make about when to have children and how many to have will determine future population growth. In sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, childbearing rates have remained stubbornly high, and childbearing is common among teenagers." This comprehensive population study includes links to additional articles (both online and print) and graphs (click on Population Story: Presentation Graphics.)

World Village Project

"What if the world were a village? If we were to reduce world population to a village of 1000 inhabitants with all existing human ratios remaining the same then, this would be our reality." 584 Asians, 124 Africans, 95 Europeans, 84 Latin Americans, 55 Russians, and 52 North Americans along with four Australians and two New Zealanders. Puts it all in perspective, doesn't it?

Please send questions or comments to feldman@surfnetkids.com.