When I was young, I wondered whether it was ethical to bring children into this world when we were sure the Soviets would begin a nuclear war at any time, and if they survived, my children could be doomed to grow up and be drafted into the never-ending war. Both those dangers abated somewhat as time went by, and I really wanted children. I never managed to "bring children into the world," but I got some of my own anyway.
The world today is scary, too, and people are constantly discussing the pros and cons of bearing children. None of those pros and cons matter as much as whether you feel the drive to raise up a family or the real desire to not have any children. All children should be wanted and loved by their parents. But as far as outside factors go, the things that are scary today might not be twenty years from now, and it might be you or your children who cause things to get better. Or worse, for that matter. Christine Emba looks at both sides of the equation. (via Big Think)
Saturday, January 04, 2025
Is It Ethical to Have Children in the 21st Century?
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3 comments:
Kids weren't for me. I never saw myself having any. But I'm glad there are those who do. Someone has to contine the species.
I do wonder whether the people who say that kids are "too expensive" or "kids take away from whatever I want to do" have any idea how entitled, self-absorbed, and insulting that sounds to their parents?
Yeah, when their parents are around, you'd think they would word it better.
Children are a sound strategy in uncertain times. One of the biggest threats in a world of turmoil is a shortage of food. In that case after the pets are gone you can eat them. Just remember eating your neighbors kids is ethically iffy.
xoxoxoBruce
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