Just 66 years ago, the pages of the authoritative scientific journal Science published a study containing a prediction that the end of the world would arrive precisely on 13 November. Scientists analysed historical data on the planet's population over the last 2,000 years and derived a formula based on it that described the acceleration of demographic growth.
Causes of the predicted collapse
According to the calculations by the authors of the work, humanity was supposed to disappear not as a result of a nuclear war or an asteroid impact, but due to mundane critical overpopulation. This factor was to become the cause of a global catastrophe.
Why the forecast did not come true
However, the actual course of events did not confirm these expectations. The authors of the model had calculated for significantly more dynamic rates of population growth. Currently, approximately 8.3 billion people live on Earth, so the threat of a demographic collapse scheduled for this Friday did not materialise.
Thus, the global community continues to exist, and people return to their usual work duties.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!