There are lots of natural section processes working on human populations. To name a few: hunger, a multiplicity of diseases, and competition (think war and genocide).
A more pertinent question might be to ask what is the carrying capacity for human populations. I would guess that carrying capacities vary locally and regionally, but many assert there is an overall global carrying capacity based on resource availability and distribution, particularly energy. And there are assertions that global warming will reduce this carrying capacity by reducing food production, water supplies and living space. Warren Aney Senior Wildlife Ecologist Tigard, OR -----Original Message----- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Buffington, Matt Sent: Friday, 10 February, 2006 10:01 To: [email protected] Subject: current natural selection pressures This is another very broad question that has been bothering me lately. = Are there any current natural selective pressures on humans? I'd say = this is mainly for developed countries. I see lots of people that are = old enough to reproduce that never would have long ago. I hesisate to = list things that may have led to an early dimise but there are lots of = them. As far as I know, there are no lions, bears or wolves hanging out = in my office building waiting to pounce on the old, very young, infirm, = or stupid. Just curious. =20 Matt Buffington Indianapolis, IN
