<p>It is a complex subject to determine whether T. R. Malthus was a forerunner of “evolutionary economists” or not. So, in this paper, as a trial for it, the term ‘industrious classes’, or the related parts extracted from all of Malthus’ writings, are examined from various viewpoints. Because Malthus forecasted that a large part of the lower classes would be gradually incorporated into the industrious classes (that is, a part of the middle or middling classes) in conjunction with increased wealth in civilised nations, in brief, according to his views, the industrious classes could become voluntary, independent labourers and acquire a taste for conveniences, comforts, and luxuries with the progress of wealth. Therefore, Malthus thought out all possible ways that can be used to convert the lower classes into industrious classes. From such a point of view, we recognize some difference between the standard of wretchedness in the <i>Essay</i> and the standard of comfort in <i>Principles</i> is discernible. In this way, we can read Malthus’ fundamental concerns over the industrious classes. As Malthus’s theory had a considerable impact on C. Darwin, we can acknowledge in Malthus an affinity to evolutionary economics in his view of the growth of industrious classes.</p>