Those who do indeed decide to have a child might do so for…
““Those who do indeed decide to have a child might do so for any number of reasons, but among these reasons cannot be the interests of the potential child. One can never have a child for that child's sake. That much should be apparent to everybody, even those who reject the stronger view for which I argue in this book-that not only does one not benefit people by bringing them into existence, but one always harms them.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Bringing a child into existence inevitably harms them; existence is not a benefit to the child.
In simple terms: Having children causes harm.
Key Takeaway
Consider the ethics before procreation.
Themes
ethics
procreation
harm
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- family planning
- ethical debates
- personal decisions
Key Concepts
antinatalism
moral reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to guarantee a child's well‑being?
- How do cultural values influence this view?
A Different Perspective
Some argue potential joy outweighs harm.