Children Quote by David Benatar
““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
Source Book: Better Never to Have Been, 2006
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.
