Children Quote by Jonathan Swift
““they will never allow that a child is under any obligation to his father for begetting him, or to his mother for bringing him into the world; which, considering the miseries of human life, was neither a benefit in itself, nor intended so by his parents, whose thoughts, in their love encounters, were otherwise employed.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “A Modest Proposal” (satire) by Jonathan Swift, 1729
Parents should not be obligated to bring children into a world of suffering.
In simple terms: Parents shouldn’t be forced to have children in a harsh world.
Key Takeaway
Consider the ethics of procreation.
Themes
ethics
parenthood
human suffering
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
satirical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- family planning
- policy debate
- ethical education
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Is procreation a moral duty?
- How do societies support children?
A Different Perspective
The argument is satirical and may be misread as literal.
