The vast expanse of America is largely unoccupied, presenting an opportunity for substantial population growth. The lower 48 states, even with a three-fold increase in population, would still have a population density less than half of what Germany has today. And, let's not forget, Germany, with its lush forests and expansive farmland, offers an exceptional quality of life.
Consider this: if the continental United States had the same population density as the European Union (EU), it could comfortably accommodate nearly a billion people. Granted, the aridity of the Western US may limit the population density to some extent, but that's no deal-breaker.
Even if only the states east of the Mississippi adopted a European-style population density, while the other states retained their current population, the United States would still house over 400 million people.
Currently, the EU, with approximately 300 people per square mile, exports more food than it imports. This density is similar to the ninth-densest US state, akin to Pennsylvania or Florida. In comparison, the continental United States has an overall density of about 110 people per square mile (if we exclude Alaska as an outlier).
So, the potential for one billion Americans isn't a flight of fancy. It's a pragmatic proposal that warrants serious consideration. America has the capacity to grow, and with careful planning and sustainable practices, a population boom could well be on the horizon.
Envisioning the United States with a billion people might seem an audacious proposition, but let's take a look at the numbers. If our population were to grow by 5% each year, it would take approximately 23 years to reach a billion citizens.
Today, we are at 330 million people. With a 5% growth rate, the projected population would increase as follows: 347 million after 1 year, 364 million after 2 years, 382 million after 3 years, and so on. After 23 years, we would reach a total of approximately 1.01 billion people.
This growth is achievable if we implement pro-family culture and legislation, supporting Americans in having the number of children they desire. Alongside this, a more open approach to immigration and refugee settlement could contribute to the 5% annual increase.
Housing is a crucial component of this growth, and deregulation of the industry would play a vital role. Eliminating unnecessary restrictions and limitations would open up the market, providing the foundation for housing a billion citizens.
By doing away with restrictive height limits for condominiums and apartment buildings, we could accommodate more people without needing more land. This approach aligns with the principles of a free-market economy and individual freedom - city regulators cannot dictate market demand, and excessive government regulation infringes on our liberties.
Allowing for higher-density housing construction not only makes financial sense, by potentially lowering home costs, but it also benefits young families, reduces urban sprawl, and promotes efficient transportation. Living in a seven-story apartment building with an elevator isn't drastically different from living in a two-story apartment complex.
A higher population density doesn't necessarily mean a decrease in the quality of life. We can learn from countries like Germany, where a higher population density has not compromised the availability of forests, farmland, and other natural spaces.
As we contemplate the idea of accommodating a billion Americans, let's remember that this is not just a numbers game. It's about creating an environment where every citizen can thrive. It's about growth, but it's also about ensuring that growth is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to all.
Ultimately, the prospect of one billion Americans is not just feasible; it also presents a unique opportunity for economic growth, cultural diversity, and societal progress. The journey there requires thoughtful planning and decisive action, particularly around family policies, immigration, and housing. But with the right approach, we can turn this ambitious vision into a reality.
Supporting Housing Growth for a Stronger Nation
The idea of slowing down the price growth of homes by allowing more apartment buildings in popular, growing cities might seem counterintuitive to some. However, artificially stifling growth to inflate property values harms those trying to start a family, undermines the American dream, and takes a toll on the environment. Ultimately, it weakens us as a nation.
Indeed, seven-story apartments aren't everyone's ideal living situation. However, the benefits of such density—a shorter commute, proximity to amenities, and a vibrant community—are trade-offs that many are willing to make. While you might prefer more open spaces, let's ensure that those who value a denser, urban lifestyle have the freedom to make that choice.
Feeding a Larger Population
Looking at our agricultural capacity, there's no reason to believe the U.S. can't support a larger population. Currently, we export 25% of the food we produce, which could directly feed an additional 82 million Americans without any changes to our agricultural practices.
Moreover, this figure doesn't account for the potential improvements in technology that could boost our agricultural yield or changes in our dietary habits that could reduce environmental impact. If we consumed locally what we now export, we could sustain a total population of over 411 million.
We are far from exhausting our agricultural capacity. With innovations like vertical farming, hydroponics, genetics, and automation, we can increase our efficiency and feed more people using less land and water. Even if land becomes scarce, it would simply lead to higher meat prices and incentivize a less resource-intensive diet. But at present, that's not a pressing concern.
Adapting to a Changing World: America's Future Population Strategy
We need to recognize that the global agricultural landscape is evolving. Currently, the developing world's agricultural yields are significantly lower than those in the United States. However, with the adoption of technology, these yields are expected to increase, reducing the world's reliance on American food exports.
The Call to Act: America's position in the world is not guaranteed, and it's essential we take proactive steps to secure our future. As China's influence grows, it's better for us to integrate a larger population into our society now, while we still have a comparative advantage.
Waiting until China surpasses us in power and wealth could have unforeseen risks. At that point, we might not be the top choice for potential immigrants, with many preferring the growing opportunities in China and India.
Historically, new waves of immigrants have faced challenges integrating into American society, with groups like the Irish, Polish, and Italians experiencing high crime rates, dysfunction, and discrimination. It's more strategic to tackle these issues now, while we still have a comfortable lead over our global competitors.
A New American Purpose: Achieving and maintaining a larger population than China could instill a noble, shared sense of purpose among Americans. The growth of China and India threatens our position as a leading power, making this an imperative goal.
Unlike China and Russia, which often resort to brutalizing and dominating their citizens and threatening their neighbors' territorial borders, America can grow stronger by welcoming citizens who voluntarily seek our freedom and opportunities.
By opening our doors wider, we are not just increasing our population; we're reaffirming our commitment to the core American values of liberty and opportunity. This approach will allow us to remain a global leader while staying true to our ideals.
A Vision for an Empowered America: Necessity of a Billion Citizens
To maintain its position as a global superpower, America must seriously consider its population strategy. To continue to compete effectively with China, India, and Russia, we will need to significantly increase our population.
In the future, a country's global influence will align more closely with its population size. America must not resign itself to fading into the background as these larger countries rise. Merely being "better" or more efficient won't suffice. For instance, China's population is over three times that of the U.S. It is improbable to assume that we could maintain a lead by being three times more efficient.
It's worth noting that nations learn and adapt from one another, leading to a leveling of the playing field. The growth rate in wealthier nations hasn't kept pace with that in developing countries. Depending on a reversal of this trend would be unwise.
Admittedly, America doesn't always outpace other nations in terms of efficiency, and we have struggled with addressing some solvable problems. Despite this, our commitment to freedom keeps us an attractive place to live. Countries like China may seem to solve problems more efficiently or outperform us in standardized test scores, but the value we place on freedom gives us an advantage. To stay relevant, however, our population needs to match those of our biggest competitors.
Therefore, envision an America that's home to one billion citizens. We must categorically reject the path taken by countries like Russia, which invaded and tried to conquer Georgia and Ukraine, or China, which annexed Tibet and threatens Taiwan. These actions are not just morally reprehensible but also strategically flawed. A smarter way to increase a nation's power is by making it a desirable place to live, embracing diversity, and welcoming those who seek prosperity and freedom.
The Path to Power: Becoming a Haven for Freedom and Prosperity
Our best chance of outpacing China and India lies in maintaining America as a desirable destination for all seeking a better life. We must continue to be open to outsiders and offer a haven where people can move freely in pursuit of prosperity.
The path of violence, dominance, and control that some nations take is not sustainable. Enforcing power over unwilling nations only breeds hatred and creates volatile governments that are met with opposition.
China's annexation of Tibet, their failure to honor commitments to Hong Kong, and threats towards Taiwan, all point towards a troubling pattern of disrespect towards freedom. Similarly, Russia's invasion of Georgia and Ukraine mirror the same destructive path of totalitarian regimes like Hitler's Germany.
If we aspire for America to hold its own against these rising powers, increasing our population to one billion citizens is a viable strategy. As long as China and Russia continue to threaten their neighbors and suppress their own citizens, America will remain an attractive prospect for hard-working, freedom-loving immigrants.
We must beware the threat of a declining superpower becoming embittered and prone to manipulation. If China surpasses us in prosperity but we maintain our power through a larger population, we can sidestep the pitfalls of resentment and frustration.
While natural resources contribute to a country's wealth, they are not the only factor. The wealth of a nation lies in its people, their skills, and their industriousness. Thriving companies require people—innovators, entrepreneurs, and a robust workforce. Every working individual contributes to a nation's strength.
Embracing a future where our population amplifies our strength, America can continue to be a beacon of freedom and prosperity on the world stage.
Apple stands as the largest company globally, its wealth not stemming from selling American natural resources but from designing innovative products, utilizing resources worldwide. The wealth that Apple contributes to America is independent of the country's natural resources.
The fear surrounding increased immigration is often unfounded. Our competition with countries like China depends heavily on our ability to maintain the appeal of the United States as a desirable place to live, displaying openness towards outsiders, and welcoming individuals who wish to be part of our free and prosperous nation. To level the playing field, our population must be comparable to theirs. Otherwise, the contest won't be about different human rights approaches or economic philosophies. They may overshadow us simply due to their sheer size.
For more information and debates on this topic, check the following links:
https://sites.google.com/view/forward-party/platform/1-billion-americans
https://www.kialo.com/america-should-strive-to-have-one-billion-citizens-as-a-way-to-compete-with-china-and-india-57465
https://www.createdebate.com/debate/show/America_should_strive_to_have_one_billion_citizens_as_a_way_to_compete_with_China_and_Indi
http://myclob.pbworks.com/w/page/21958070/Immigration
a) Fundamental beliefs or principles one must reject to also reject this belief:
- Belief in the strength of diversity and the enrichment it brings to society.
- Belief that population growth directly contributes to economic and global power.
- Acceptance of the idea of immigration as a critical factor in national growth and development.
- Confidence in the capacity of the US to sustainably accommodate a significantly larger population.
b) Alternate expressions (e.g., metatags, mottos, hashtags):
- #OneBillionAmericans
- "Population Power"
- "Growing Our Way to Global Relevance"
- #EmbraceTheBillion
c) Objective criteria to measure the strength of this belief:
- Public sentiment and opinion polls regarding population growth and immigration.
- Legislative measures aimed at accommodating increased population or immigration.
- Rates of population growth, both natural and via immigration.
- Degree of societal and infrastructural readiness for significant population increase.
d) Shared interests between those who agree/disagree:
- The desire for a prosperous, globally competitive nation.
- The need for sustainable development and responsible use of resources.
- Concern for the well-being and quality of life for American citizens.
e) Key opposing interests between those who agree/disagree (that must be addressed for mutual understanding):
- Views on immigration - its impacts and value.
- Varying concerns about environmental sustainability and resource utilization.
- Divergent perspectives on cultural identity and social cohesion in an increasingly diverse society.
f) Solutions:
- Comprehensive immigration reform to welcome more immigrants while ensuring proper systems for integration and support.
- Proactive urban planning and infrastructure development to accommodate a larger population.
- Policies encouraging higher birth rates, such as improved parental leave, affordable childcare, and financial incentives.
- Investments in sustainable technologies to ensure resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.
g) Strategies for encouraging commitment to a resolution to evidence-based solutions:
- Public education and awareness campaigns to highlight the potential benefits of a larger population.
- Policies and laws grounded in comprehensive research and successful case studies.
- Inclusive dialogues and debates to address concerns and bridge divides between opposing views.
- Demonstrating successful models of higher-density living and thriving diverse communities.
- Logical arguments:
- Population and Economic Growth: Larger populations often mean larger economies. More people equate to more consumers, workers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
- Global Relevance: In the future, the world stage might be dominated by populous countries like India and China. Maintaining a comparable population might be key to retaining global influence.
- Supporting evidence (data, studies):
- According to a United Nations report, countries with declining populations face economic stagnation and a shrinking workforce. Maintaining a steady or growing population could avoid such problems. (Source: "World Population Ageing 2019" by United Nations)
- Supporting books:
- "One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger" by Matthew Yglesias
- Supporting videos (movies, YouTube, TikTok):
- TED Talk by Hans Rosling, "Global Population Growth, Box by Box."
- Supporting organizations and their Websites:
- Pro-Immigration organizations like FWD.us (https://www.fwd.us) believe in the power of immigrants and immigration reform for economic and societal growth.
- Urban Land Institute (https://uli.org/) advocates for responsible land use and creating sustainable, thriving communities.
- Supporting podcasts:
- The Weeds, particularly the episode "One Billion Americans?" where Matthew Yglesias explains his proposal.
- Unbiased experts:
- Matthew Yglesias, author of "One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger."
- Lyman Stone, a demographic researcher and an adjunct fellow at AEI.
- Benefits of belief acceptance (ranked by Maslow categories):
- Physiological: An increased population could lead to more job opportunities, stimulating economic growth that can improve standards of living.
- Safety: A more populous nation could have a stronger international presence, improving national security.
- Belonging: Enhanced diversity could lead to a richer cultural tapestry and sense of global community.
- Esteem: A larger population could boost national prestige and maintain America's global status.
- Self-Actualization: A society that welcomes and integrates immigrants, and supports families to have the number of children they want, could be seen as more free, prosperous, and forward-thinking.
