Children Quote by Germaine Greer
““We can only afford two children' really means, 'We only like clean, well-disciplined middle-class children who go to good schools and grow up to be professionals', for children manage to use up all the capital that is made available for the purpose, whatever proportion it may be of the family's whole income, just as housework expands to fill the time available.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Female Eunuch, 1970 (paraphrased)
The quote critiques middle‑class expectations that children must fill their time with disciplined, professional‑oriented activities, reflecting societal pressure to use all available resources.
In simple terms: Society pressures kids to be disciplined and become professionals, using all resources.
Key Takeaway
Question societal expectations about child development.
Themes
family
class
education
social pressure
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- parenting decisions
- school choices
- budgeting for children
- career planning
Key Concepts
middle‑class norms
resource allocation
child development
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance freedom and discipline for children?
- What alternatives exist to the 'plan B' mindset?
A Different Perspective
Not all families share these values or resources.
