The Case Against Procreation: Antinatalism in Modern Discourse

By Joseph Hover

In "The Case Against Procreation", Joseph Hover presents a provocative and deeply researched critique of the most fundamental aspect of human society: having children. Through a series of compelling arguments and insightful analyses, this book makes the case for antinatalism, the philosophical position that it is morally wrong to procreate.

 

Through its rigorous and accessible exploration of the ethics and consequences of procreation, this book will challenge readers to rethink their assumptions about the value and purpose of having children. Is parenthood truly a selfless act, or is it a selfish desire driven by personal fulfillment and social pressure? Can we truly justify bringing new life into a world plagued by suffering, inequality, and environmental degradation?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Joseph Hover
• Release date: May 2, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224090433

Book preview

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

THE CASE AGAINST PROCREATION: ANTINATALISM IN MODERN DISCOURSE

First edition. May 2, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 Joseph Hover.

Written by Joseph Hover.

The Case Against Procreation

Antinatalism in Modern Discourse

Joseph Hover

Table of Contents

I. The High Price of Procreation..........................................................3

II. Correlation Between Family Size and Prosperity............................................13

III. The Selfish Roots of Procreation......................................................20

IV. The Opportunity Costs of Parenthood...................................................26

V. The Disproportionate Burden on Fathers..................................................31

VI. Modern Women - Outsourcing Childcare.................................................36

VII. Legally Bound - Family Law and Power Dynamics.........................................42

VIII. The Genetic Gamble of Reproduction..................................................46

IX. From Dreams to Disappointment: Parental Expectations.......................................52

X. The Facade of the Happy Family.......................................................57

I. The High Price of Procreation

THE DECISION TO HAVE children is one that should not be taken lightly, as it comes with a monumental financial burden that far too many people severely underestimate. The costs of raising a child from birth to age 18 are staggering - food, clothing, healthcare, education, activities, housing needs and more. According to the latest estimates, for a middle-income family, the price tag rings in at over $300,000 per child. And that's just to get them to the cusp of adulthood without any assistance for higher education.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs of raising a child from birth to age 17:

●  Housing: $73,600 (24% of total cost)

This includes the cost of housing, utilities, and maintenance.

●  Food: $44,400 (15% of total cost)

This includes the cost of food, snacks, and beverages.

●  Childcare and Education: $42,400 (14% of total cost)

This includes the cost of preschool, and education expenses.

●  Healthcare: $35,400 (12% of total cost)

This includes the cost of medical care, insurance, and health-related expenses.

●  Clothing: $14,400 (5% of total cost)

This includes the cost of clothing, accessories, and personal care items.

●  Miscellaneous: $40,400 (13% of total cost)

This includes the cost of entertainment, travel, and miscellaneous expenses.

These estimates are based on data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES) conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The expenses begin well before the baby arrives - prenatal care, expensive hospital births, nursery setup, baby gear, and lost income from maternity leave. Then the costs just keep on coming - diapers, formula, childcare fees that can rival college tuition, and the