Review: A Disturbing Look at Overpopulation
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 06 7, 2012
Robert Bloch offers a disturbing and chilling look at the consequences of overpopulation.  This book came out in 1958, so parts of it were outdated, but other aspects were surprisingly prescient.In Bloch's version of the future (which covers our present day), the population has grown until their is basically no more room for people to live. Draconian laws are enacted to deal with the problem, and the book covers a time span as these laws take effect.Where the book works is how the author is able to put a human touch on what is happening.  He is able to show us, through his characters' eyes, just what would be the physical and emotional ramifications on the steps governments take. A general feeling of hopelessness is very well conveyed.Where it doesn't work is on the technical aspects.  In Bloch's turn of the century, he as the world's population is correct at about 6 billion, but for him, this means 63 million in Philadelphia and 35 million in Chicago alone.  And with 6 billion, there is literally no room for anyone to live.  While overpopulation is an issue today, the numbers given don't justify the extreme measure taken.  And with organic food at such a premium, his vision of hobo-turned cowboys to herd cattle makes little sense, as one example of his food vision not being up to par.His main vision, which he calls the "Leff Laws," would have no ability to rectify the problems given how they were implemented.  I won't give too much way here, but the math just doesn't work out.One surprising mistake, given that the author is quite famous and had the advantage if numerous editors, is that he made numerous errors in math with regards to age.  Each chapter was titled with the main character of the chapter's age and the year in which it took place.  However, quite often, the age given for the character and the year in which the chapter took place did not match.  This was an annoying lack of paying attention to detail.However, Bloch is a skilled writer, so while it goes against my grain, I have to give him a pass on much of the science and just grant him broad poetic license.  The bottom line is that this is a gripping and engrossing tale which is just as enjoyable now as it must have been when it was first written.