positive checks

Positive checks refer to factors that increase mortality rates within a population, helping to control its size. These can include famine, disease, war, and natural disasters. When a population exceeds the resources available, these checks come into play, resulting in higher death rates. The concept is often associated with demographer Thomas Malthus, who argued that without such checks, human populations would grow uncontrollably, leading to crises. In essence, positive checks serve as natural mechanisms that balance population growth with resource availability, ensuring sustainability over time.