Thomas Malthus

Thomas Robert Malthus was born to Daniel and Henrietta Malthus in Westcott, Surrey, England. His father was a prosperous country gentleman and a friend of philosopher David Hume.

Malthus entered Jesus College, Cambridge, where he studied mathematics, classics, and divinity. He excelled academically and won several prizes in Latin and English declamation.

Malthus was ordained as an Anglican clergyman, reflecting his deep religious beliefs and commitment to the church. He continued his theological studies and became a curate in Surrey.

Malthus published his seminal work, 'An Essay on the Principle of Population,' arguing that population growth tends to outpace food supply, leading to checks such as famine, disease, and war.

Malthus traveled to Europe, including Scandinavia and Russia, to gather empirical data and further his research on population dynamics and economic conditions.

Malthus released a substantially revised and expanded second edition of his 'Essay on the Principle of Population,' incorporating new data and addressing criticisms of his earlier work.

Malthus was appointed as the first Professor of History and Political Economy at the East India Company College in Haileybury, a position he held until his death.

Malthus married Harriet Eckersall, the daughter of his friend and colleague, and they had three children together, though only one survived infancy.

Malthus was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, a prestigious honor recognizing his significant contributions to the fields of economics and demography.

Thomas Malthus died in Bath, Somerset, England, leaving behind a legacy of influential ideas that continue to shape discussions on population, economics, and social policy.