It should be noted that the inverse actually is a popular plot point in some areas. For instance, Japan has a significant number of stories centered around plans to increase the low birth rate (seriously, just bringing in outsiders is not a solution long-term). There are series where people are forced to marry young, or to marry government-mandated partners, or are taught and encouraged to become sexually active sooner, etc.
Fanra
Negative population control a problem in Real Life? I think not. World population currently estimated to be 6.97 billion by the United States Census Bureau as of July 1, 2011. Estimates vary but continue to show increased numbers, unless major disasters happen. The carrying capacity of Earth is less then the current population, as seen by the continued rise in commodity prices.
While some nations like Japan and Russia complain of shrinking populations, the world population increases. Simply allowing immigration would enable Japan and Russia to reach any levels of population they would want. Racism is the reason they won't do it.
Where would a "select avoidance" storyline apply?
In the unaired pilot turned movie - Island City (1994) - the characters wear jewels to identify who they can sleep/procreate with.
Is that another trope altogether or does it fit into population control? (they are trying to control the population in a way as they don't want to increase the "mutant" population.
Edited by Hoshi_Reed