Quote:
Originally Posted by frau kaleun
In what you quoted he says that he knows he would be the same way as a parent (as his parents were with him). Whether it's a fact that he would be that way or not, it sounds like he either believes or fears that he would be what most of us would consider a "bad" parent.
Given that a lot of "bad" parenting and family dynamics are in fact passed down from one generation to the next even despite the best intentions and hopes of those involved, it's not unreasonable for him to believe (or fear) that he would not be any better as a parent than his own parents were.
For someone who feels they are likely to be very bad at parenting, and wouldn't be able to provide a better environment than the negative one they experienced, not having children is exactly the opposite of being "selfish" IMO. It's certainly a lot better than having a bunch of kids he isn't able to raise in a healthy and positive environment.
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Not all bad parenting is passed down. Many make it a point not to be like their parents. But I do agree bad parenting is passed down. Kids are products of their environment. But, IMO, that is as far as it goes for this author. I see his position as has very little to do with saving the planet.