Thomas Robert Malthus, in his theory of “resource scarcity,” proposed that while population increases geometrically, resources grow only arithmetically. This imbalance, he argued, inevitably leads to poverty, famine, and disease, which function as natural checks on population. Malthus's theory has significantly influenced global policies on population control, resource distribution, and development planning.
This article offers a critical analysis of Malthusian theory through the lens of the Holy Qur’an. The findings show that this theory is not merely a statistical model but reflects a particular worldview that requires epistemological scrutiny and theological reassessment. From a Qur’anic perspective, several core assumptions of Malthus’s theory are problematic. Firstly, the idea that nature lacks divine wisdom and providence contradicts the Qur’anic portrayal of resources as abundant and expressive of God’s grace. Provision (rizq) is divinely guaranteed, though its realization depends on human action and stewardship.
Secondly, the reduction of human beings to selfish consumers undermines their Qur’anic role as vicegerents (khulafā') responsible for the earth. Thirdly, the acceptance of poverty as a natural condition is inconsistent with Qur’anic principles of justice, economic planning, financial purification (zakāh), and gratitude. Rather than viewing population growth as a threat, the Qur’an frames it as a divine opportunity for the flourishing of life and civilization. Thus, the Qur’anic worldview fundamentally challenges the Malthusian paradigm and offers an alternative vision rooted in divine justice, human responsibility, and abundance.
beygi, M. (2025). "A Qur'anic Critique of Malthus's Theory of 'Resource Scarcity and the Necessity of Population Control'". Quranic Doctrines, (), -. doi: 10.30513/qd.2025.7180.2589
MLA
beygi, M. . ""A Qur'anic Critique of Malthus's Theory of 'Resource Scarcity and the Necessity of Population Control'"", Quranic Doctrines, , , 2025, -. doi: 10.30513/qd.2025.7180.2589
HARVARD
beygi, M. (2025). '"A Qur'anic Critique of Malthus's Theory of 'Resource Scarcity and the Necessity of Population Control'"', Quranic Doctrines, (), pp. -. doi: 10.30513/qd.2025.7180.2589
CHICAGO
M. beygi, ""A Qur'anic Critique of Malthus's Theory of 'Resource Scarcity and the Necessity of Population Control'"," Quranic Doctrines, (2025): -, doi: 10.30513/qd.2025.7180.2589
VANCOUVER
beygi, M. "A Qur'anic Critique of Malthus's Theory of 'Resource Scarcity and the Necessity of Population Control'". Quranic Doctrines, 2025; (): -. doi: 10.30513/qd.2025.7180.2589
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