Note 242-9 — Chapter I

Hence the infinite productiveness of irrational organisms is limited only by their mutual struggle for the means of support. That which cannot live there dies. "In this case there can be no artificial increase of food, and no prudential restraint from marriage." (Darwin, Origin of species, 4 ed. 1866, 73.) Compare B. Franklin, Observations concerning the Increase of Mankind, § 21. Lamennais, indeed, asserts that no plant and no animal takes away food from any other; that the earth has room for all!