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Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise Perry
The Enlightenment Was a Disaster - Johann Kurtz | Maiden Mother Matriarch Episode 112
Jan 22, 2025
In this episode, Johann Kurtz, a pseudonymous author known for his insights on historical fertility and social status, delves into intriguing dynamics between status and reproduction. He discusses how social hierarchies influence fertility trends, challenging traditional views of wealth and religion's roles. Kurtz also explores the Enlightenment's paradox, revealing its unexpected impact on birth rates. With compelling case studies from Georgia and South Korea, he examines how status shapes parenthood choices and critiques contemporary narratives around women's roles in family planning.
56:18
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Quick takeaways
- The decline in fertility rates is significantly linked to diminishing social prestige associated with motherhood rather than solely economic factors.
- Kurtz highlights that high-fertility countries often remain impoverished, challenging the assumption that wealth directly influences reproductive decisions.
Deep dives
The Decline of Fertility and Social Status
The discussion highlights the long-term decline in fertility rates across various countries, notably Britain. Johan Kurtz argues that traditional explanations, such as increased wealth and religiosity, overlook a crucial factor: social status. His thesis suggests that the decreased social prestige associated with motherhood plays a significant role in reproductive choices. As social dynamics evolve, the societal valuation of motherhood diminishes, leading to lower fertility rates.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode