THE AGE OF DECAY: AGEING, SHRINKING POPULATIONS AND THE DECLINE OF CIVILISATION
Shamil Ismail, investment analyst
Saturday 31 January 10.00 am–12.00 pm COURSE FEES R230; Staff and students R115
This double lecture is a thought-provoking exploration of how demographic shifts – particularly ageing populations and declining birth rates – could unravel the very fabric of modern civilisation. We will discuss the social and economic implications, highlighting which countries could be most affected, and also look at the actions taken by some governments and how effective these actions have been.
Shamil Ismail argues that the real threat lies not just in fewer people, but in the fast-shrinking pool of essential workers – those who keep society functioning, from healthcare and agriculture to logistics and infrastructure. As these roles become harder to fill in developed countries, the consequences could be catastrophic: crumbling cities, disrupted supply chains and economic stagnation.
Recommended reading
Ismail, S. 2025. The Age of Decay: How Aging and Shrinking Populations Could Usher in the Decline of Civilization. Cape Town: Quickfox Publishing.
TO BOOK: https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx?itemid=1575433521