Declining Birth Rates and Education's Impact

This chapter examines the global trend of declining birth rates, especially in developed countries, analyzing the complex interplay between women's workforce participation, economic conditions, and societal structures. It contrasts historical practices, such as child labor, with contemporary views on family size and education, suggesting that increased education leads to lower fertility due to higher opportunity costs. Additionally, the chapter critiques the evolution of presidential inaugural speeches and the U.S. education system, highlighting concerns about the decline in linguistic sophistication and intelligence among the populace over time.