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On an average day, 324,000 new babies are born into the…

“On an average day, 324,000 new babies are born into the world every day. During that same day, 10,000 persons, on an average, will have starved to death or died from malnutrition.’ So it goes. ‘In addition, 123,000 persons will die for other reasons.’ So it goes. ‘This leaves a net gain of about…” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
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““On an average day, 324,000 new babies are born into the world every day. During that same day, 10,000 persons, on an average, will have starved to death or died from malnutrition.’ So it goes. ‘In addition, 123,000 persons will die for other reasons.’ So it goes. ‘This leaves a net gain of about 191,000 each day in the world. The Population Reference Bureau predicts that the world’s total population will double to 7,000,000,000 before the year 2000.’ ‘I suppose they will all want dignity,’ I said. ‘I suppose,’ said O’Hare.””

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker presents stark population statistics, noting high birth rates, deaths from starvation, and overall growth, questioning dignity for a growing populace.

In simple terms: World population rises despite suffering; dignity is uncertain.

Key Takeaway

Consider humanity’s growth and its moral implications.

Themes

population mortality ethics dignity growth

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy planning
  • humanitarian aid
  • education
  • public health

Key Concepts

demography social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities arise with rapid population growth?
  • How can dignity be ensured for all?
A Different Perspective

Numbers alone ignore individual experiences and systemic causes.

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