NEW DELHI, Dec. 5 -- "Eight Billion and Counting: How Sex, Death, and Migration Shape Our World" is the title of a book written by Jennifer Sciuba, political demography expert from Rhodes College, published early this year. And the world saw the birth of the eight billionth child on November 15, 2022. The phenomenon is much greater -- overwhelming, mind-boggling!

It is another milestone in the Anthropocene, with the anthropos spreading over the planet hitting the startling number of 8 billion (8 followed by 9 zeroes). Venice Mabansag, born through normal delivery at Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Manila, at 1.29 am is reported to be the 8 billionth child. Is it a time to celebrate the indomitable human spirit or a time to lament, c...