Uncanny Valley | WIRED Do We Need To Have More Babies?
Mar 6, 2025
Silicon Valley's elite push for more babies sparks a lively debate on pronatalism. Influential figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are vocal on the need to address declining birth rates. The discussion delves into the ethics of selective pronatalism and genetic screening, raising important questions about our future. Case studies, such as Japan's aging crisis, highlight the broader societal implications. Meanwhile, new reproductive health tech is transforming fertility tracking, but the need for privacy remains a concern. It's a fascinating exploration of parenting in today's world.
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Pronatalism in Silicon Valley
- Pronatalism, promoting having children, is linked to concerns about population decline and its economic impact.
- In Silicon Valley, this ideology is intertwined with anxieties about declining birth rates and economic prosperity.
Right-Wing Pronatalism
- The pronatalism conversation has become a right-wing issue due to its association with traditional family structures.
- However, declining birth rates have complex causes tied to economic and societal factors.
Elite Influence on Birth Rates
- Historically, elites have influenced birth rate trends, sometimes expressing concern over both overpopulation and underpopulation.
- They often react negatively when lower classes deviate from their prescribed birth rate patterns.