The Birth Dearth is a 1987 non-fiction book by Ben J. Wattenberg, a political scientist and author. The book argues that the declining birth rate in developed countries is a serious problem that could have far-reaching consequences for the economy, society, and culture. Wattenberg begins by examining the historical trends in birth rates. He notes that the birth rate in the United States has been declining since the early 1970s, and that this trend is not unique to the United States. He also notes that the birth rate is declining in other developed countries, such as Japan, Germany, and France. Wattenberg then argues that the declining birth rate is a problem because it will lead to a smaller workforce and a larger elderly population. He also argues that the declining birth rate will make it more difficult to sustain economic growth and social programs. Wattenberg concludes by proposing a number of solutions to the birth dearth. He suggests that governments should provide financial incentives for couples to have children, and that they should make it easier for women to combine work and family. The Birth Dearth was a controversial book when it was published. Some critics argued that Wattenberg was exaggerating the problem, while others argued that he was proposing unrealistic solutions. However, the book has been influential in shaping the debate about the declining birth rate.