Do Antinatalists Hate Children?
Being an antinatalist does not equate to hating children. Although there are numerous memes and online posts that disparage children, these do not reflect a serious philosophical discussion of antinatalism. The philosophy itself focuses on the issue of birth, which pertains to everyone, not just children. If you consult a reputable book on antinatalism, you won’t find any endorsement of hatred towards children within its pages. In fact, antinatalists can love children in their lives, and there are instances where individuals become antinatalists after having children. It is important to recognize that the negative perceptions surrounding this topic (and others) are frequently exaggerated or fomented by superficial commentary.
Do Antinatalists Hate People?
The idea that antinatalists hate people is a misconception. In reality, philanthropic antinatalism is rooted in empathy and a recognition of the suffering that comes with being born into a harsh environment (interestingly, the first thing we do when we’re born is cry). Antinatalists acknowledge that love, beauty, and pleasure exist in the world and do not believe that anyone who is alive should be deprived of these experiences. For those who are already born, the philosophy encourages maximizing pleasure within reasonable bounds. It is crucial to distinguish between the value of bringing a new life into existence and the value of continuing an existing life.
On the other hand, misanthropic antinatalism argues that humans cause significant harm to both the environment and each other, leading to the conclusion that it is better not to come into existence. However, this viewpoint does not imply hatred for people. In fact, a misanthropic antinatalist would necessarily include themselves in any such definition, and their critique is based on observation rather than malice. The philosophy does not advocate for harming or killing people.
Are Antinatalists Mentally Ill?
Antinatalists are not more prone to mental illness than others. The association between antinatalism and mental illness often arises because the philosophy challenges the deeply ingrained pro-natalist attitudes prevalent in society. For those encountering antinatalism for the first time, the ideas may appear shocking or unsettling. It is worth noting that mental illness is another type of harm that existing individuals may experience, which further supports some of the core claims of antinatalism.