In an effort to assess what could and should be done in the field of population research and the application of research findings, the Population Crisis Committee has compiled this series of essays. Each is written by a recognized authority working in his own specialty in the field of population. The essays are short, nontechnical statements of what could and should be done in particular areas and an estimate of a reasonable level of funding required to produce useful results. Topics considered relate to basic research in reproduction, developments in contraception, social research, training and organization, and general background of the need for and significance of population research. Thirty essays are presented. (BL)