Antinatalism facts for kids
Antinatalism is a big word for a simple idea. It's a way of thinking that says it's not good to bring new people into the world. People who believe in antinatalism think that humans (and sometimes other living things that can feel) should stop having children. They believe this because they think it's morally wrong to start a new life. On the other hand, people who think having children is good are called natalists.
The word "antinatalism" was probably first used by a Belgian writer named Théophile de Giraud. He wrote a book about it. A philosopher from South Africa, David Benatar, has also written books that support this idea.
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Why Some People Support Antinatalism
Some people have different reasons for supporting antinatalism. Here are a few of them:
Stopping Pain is Important
One idea is called Negative Utilitarianism. This idea says that stopping pain is more important than making people happy. It's a bit different from the usual idea of utilitarianism, which focuses on making the most happiness for the most people.
People who believe in Negative Utilitarianism say that creating happiness isn't really needed. But since life often has bad things and pain, they think it's not worth starting a new life. Some even argue that the worst pains in life are so bad that even the best happy moments don't make up for them. This makes starting a new life seem too risky.
Seeing the World Clearly
Another reason comes from something called Realism. Supporters of antinatalism sometimes point out that most people have an "optimism bias." This means that people often see the world as better or more positive than it actually is. They might ignore the difficulties or suffering that exist.
Religious Beliefs
Some Religions have also supported ideas similar to antinatalism. Certain religious groups believed that creating new life trapped souls in a world that was not good. Some of these groups include the Manichaeans, the Bogomils, and the Cathars. Other groups like the Marcionites and the Encratites also held similar beliefs.
What Others Say
People who are natalists, meaning they believe having children is good, often say that most people are happy with their lives. They argue that because happiness is common, bringing new people into the world is a positive thing.
Related Pages
See also
In Spanish: Antinatalismo para niños
