This booklet examines the highly complex and highly nuanced subject of population growth and its consequences. The subject is controversial because it lies at the intersection of so many different disciplines. The primary purpose of the book is to define the large measure of common ground that exists among experts with respect to two critical points: (1) what needs to be done; and (2) what can be done. Such an understanding is necessary since population growth is one of the global problems that will bear most heavily on the peace and prosperity of the international system in the future. Chapters include: (1) "Rapid Population Growth: Truths and Consequences"; (2) "The Explosion of the Cities"; (3) "Feeding the World"; (4) "Models of Family Planning"; (5) "Women's Education and Empowerment"; and (6) "U.S. Policy and the Global Agenda." Monographs in FPA's Headline Series are published approximately four times a year and are intended as a resource for teachers and students in the foreign policy area. Each monograph: is about a world area or topic; is written by a noted scholar; is brief (usually 64 pages); is written to be highly readable; and includes basic background, maps, charts, discussion guides, and suggested reading. (EH)