"Visions of World Benefit & Global Responsibility: Perspectives of McGill Students


Friday, July 27, 2007

Population control and aging population

Population control and the aging population is something that needs to be tended to by the leaders and organizations of the world. Many of the “Baby Boomer” generation are now reaching, or have reached, the age of retirement. How will this affect the economy? Employment rates? There is also the issue of extreme poverty in certain Third World Nations such as Africa, the Middle East and Central America. These countries are dealing with increasing birth rates and may, eventually, not have enough resources or land to sustain them .
This issue is significant in the 21st century due to the fact that new enterprises are constantly entering the market and older enterprises are continuously expanding. The retirement of the “Baby Boomers” could lead to two different scenarios: First, there could be the issue of loss in expertise in the work force, labor shortages and consequently, negative effects on the economy . Another scenario could arise should the Baby Boomers decide not to retire but rather continue to work for a few more years due to the decrease in the economy . Being aware of the Panarchy Model, we know that at a certain point, a renewal within management is needed in order for greater innovation. The organizations and enterprises of the world need to be ready for either outcome.

There is also the issue of sustainability in over-populated areas. Third World Nations are becoming poorer as rich countries are becoming richer. It is up to the leaders of the world to intervene in corrupt governments and educate the people. Our “American” way of life does not need to be imposed in order for other countries to thrive. It is, however, the duty of firms to go into impoverished areas and teach the people basic skills such as how to read and write and give them the opportunity to work for a decent wage. Governments, firms and enterprises need to involve themselves in society and offer the possibility of employment as well as the right to a better retirement.

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