Anastasia Berg and Rachel Wiseman, co-authors of 'What Are Children For?', delve into the dramatic cultural shifts impacting America’s declining birth rate. They discuss the rise of 'parenthood ambivalence' and how changing attitudes towards dating and family planning reveal a disconnect in modern relationships. With insights on feminism, environmental concerns, and evolving gender roles, they challenge traditional views on parenting, urging a reflection on what family means in today's world. Their analysis opens a dialogue about the emotional complexities of modern parenthood.

Anastasia Berg, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at UC Irvine and co-author of "What Are Children For?", engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about parenthood. She and Yascha Mounk delve into why many delay having children, discussing the ethical implications of declining fertility rates. They challenge societal pressures that shape decisions around parenthood and explore the opportunity costs involved. The conversation emphasizes the need to reassess the value of human life and the impact of fewer people on our moral landscape.

In this engaging discussion, guests Madeleine Davis, a New Statesman contributor, and Anastasia Berg, co-author of "What Are Children For? On Ambivalence and Choice," explore the global decline in birth rates. They delve into how financial, social, and romantic factors influence the choice to have children. The conversation highlights changing attitudes towards parenthood and the complexities of modern family planning, emphasizing the societal shifts that impact decisions about raising a family.

Authors Anastasia Berg and Rachel Wiseman discuss their new book 'What are Children For?' exploring topics like declining birth rates in the US, delay of parenthood by middle-class women, ambivalent mother narratives, and eco-apocalypse fiction. They delve into societal pressures, relationship dynamics, and ethical dilemmas surrounding parenthood amidst climate crisis. The conversation also touches on changing family dynamics in TV shows and societal perceptions of motherhood.

Join philosopher Anastasia Berg, an advocate for young liberals, as she challenges the narrative that parenthood is a conservative choice. She explores the unique hurdles faced by progressives considering family amid climate fears and social issues. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas surrounding parenting and the legacy of shaping future generations, urging listeners to embrace the idea that having children can be a hopeful, proactive decision in a changing world.