First off, every ethical argument for having children is dominated by other options that are more effective.

1) If you’re worried about population issues, just donate $10k to bednets. That's roughly the equivalent of two extra children existing in the world.

If you only care about population issues in your own country, then there are undoubtedly charities that save/create more lives in your own country that are cheaper than having your own children.

I would also recommend questioning your beliefs that people in your own country matter more than other countries.

2) If you’re worried about “idiocracies” and think your genes would make the difference, donate your sperm/eggs, and call it a day.

This also addresses the whole “you owe it to your ancestors” logic.

If you think you’d provide a better environment for the children than other people, remember that having children that feel like [...]

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First published:
August 10th, 2025

Source:
https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/x7kiTYQ3FMmNn7r6d/having-children-is-a-deeply-personal-choice-do-not-use

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Narrated by TYPE III AUDIO.

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“Having children is a deeply personal choice. Do not use ethical arguments to try to shame people into having them or not having them.” by KatWoods

LessWrong (30+ Karma)

“Having children is a deeply personal choice. Do not use ethical arguments to try to shame people into having them or not having them.” by KatWoods