Population cycle civilization model

The population cycle model of civilization is a system for understanding economic, demographic, and environmental reality. As a model, this worldview claims to predict unfortunate consequences unless modern civilizations achieve sustainability.
The concept is grounded heavily in the biological sciences. John B. Calhoun studied, between the late 1940s and 1985, consequences of population growth among initially uncrowded mouse and rat colonies as they expand into limited space. He showed that where flight becomes impossible, overpopulation-burden-shifting “fight” instincts trigger continuously and relentlessly. Violence spirals into cannibalism and infanticide.
The human version of this model argues that four phases of human development control prosperity, freedom, and peace. These phases flow from fundamental Darwinian principles, yet can be characterized as Eden, Eden Fading, Oppression, and Apocalypse. See also Aggression, the subsection "In Humans."
Such notions are criticized by some, notably the late Julian Simon. Simon's view was that human numbers are an unqualified good.
Proponents of the population cycle civilization model argue that deliberate, intentional sustainability planning is critical to assure the best possible future.

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