If a woman can by careful selection of a father, and…
““If a woman can by careful selection of a father, and nourishment of herself produce a citizen with efficient senses, sound organs and a good digestion, she should clearly be secured a sufficient reward for that natural service to make her willing to undertake and repeat it. Whether she be financed in the undertaking by herself, or by the father, of by a speculative capitalist, or by a new department of , say, the Royal Dublin Society, or (as at present) by the War Office maintaining her ‘on the strength’ and authority under a by-law directing that women may under certain circumstances have a year’s leave of absence on full salary, or by the central government, does not matter provided the results be satisfactory.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shaw argues that women's reproductive role should be rewarded and supported, regardless of funding source, if it yields healthy citizens.
In simple terms: Women’s role in child‑rearing deserves fair compensation and support.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for equitable support of mothers.
Themes
gender
labor
social policy
economics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
political
social
When to use this quote
- parental leave policies
- government funding for childcare
- private sponsorship of families
- historical labor debates
Key Concepts
feminism
public health
social welfare
Questions to Reflect On
- What incentives best support mothers?
- How should society value caregiving work?
A Different Perspective
Implementation varies across societies and may face political resistance.