"Dependable relationships as they age" and "someone to ensure they're cared for" aren't things potential parents should assume any offspring will be willing and able to provide.
Re:U.S. Fertility Rate Falls to Record Low
by lotsofpulp on Thursday April 25, 2024 @08:54PM
(#40164812)
One can be content in the event that offspring do not provide (for any number of reasons), but also aim for it as a potential benefit (without necessarily restricting your kids).
It can be as simple as having younger people to spend holidays with, or maybe take you to the doctor once in a while, or give a helping hand for a home improvement project.
Re:U.S. Fertility Rate Falls to Record Low
by HelloMcFly on Friday April 26, 2024 @09:53AM
(#40169417)
Of course there are no guarantees, but it is nevertheless something people hope for, and there's a very wide continuum with lots of things above "nothing".
Re:U.S. Fertility Rate Falls to Record Low
by bottlepalm on Thursday April 25, 2024 @06:47PM
(#40164016)
kids are now an ‘experience’, like going on trip. We can choose when and how many. We control the parameters of our experience. For many the ticket is too costly not in money, but in time and commitment.
In most instances, the choice to have kids or not have kids are both driven out a selfish desire to get out of life what one wants (though of course married couples may have one person's desires more filled than the other's). My friends had kids because they wanted to have the experience, have dependable relationships as they age, have someone to ensure they're cared for in old age, etc. It's not out of some altruistic behavior to ensure social security is stable for another few years.
That the decision benefits our societal structures (though likely harms the environment and natural ecosystems) is a side-effect.