[Demographic explosion: birth control and family planning].

The history of theories opposing uncontrolled population growth and advocating birth control and family planning, and the debates that took place on this subject, are reviewed. The rapid population growth of recent times, with special emphasis on the case of the underdeveloped countries, and the spreading of birth control programs and policies are discussed. The debate in Brazil, with special reference to legal problems and to the position of the church with respect to birth control, is reviewed and discussed. It is concluded that family planning is necessary and should be favored, but never imposed by the state; it should be a responsible decision of the individuals concerned. Abortion as a birth control method is specifically condemned. Furthermore, the author attacks the advocates of zero population growth, maintaining that resources can be developed to support an increasing population.