Philm series | aporia: depopulation and antinatalism - two docs

In philosophy, in logic, an aporia is a puzzle, a form of paradox, a problem arising when two claims on our attention, each as evident as the other, counter each other leaving us at a loss as to what to think. In ethics, it is a situation that leaves us at a loss as to what to feel or do. The two film documentaries below appear to present an ethical dilemma. We have addressed the topics of depopulation and antinatalism in the past here, here, and here, but this event will be a discussion of two engaging, well-made films motivated by seemingly opposed concerns – which is the greater? Where we choose to target our compassion is unclear.

1. Birthgap - Childless World PART 1
By Stephen J. Shaw

https://youtu.be/A6s8QlIGanA?si=Ym6nrI43ow2RZx1s

“The era of ultra-low birthrates has begun. But why are people having so few children these days? And what are the consequences? Come on a journey of discovery across 24 countries to find the reason and also the future consequences for young and old alike.”

2. I Wish You Were Never Born - A Documentary
By Jack Boswell

https://youtu.be/tnjC4GCHvA8?si=RP4xYn2jSXP-VmXY

“Life is a gift, isn't it? Or perhaps it's actually pretty awful? In this documentary, I explore the fringe philosophy of Antinatalism: the belief that having children is morally wrong because life contains mostly suffering.

“How has the movement spread and found new followers? What impact does it have on antinatalists' lives for them to hold such an extreme belief? How does it cross over with issues including climate change, abortion rights, mental health and assisted suicide? Join me, as I travel from London to the far-flung corners of America to find out.

“When all is said and done, is the kindest thing you can do for someone... not bring them into existence in the first place?”

...

I want to focus our discussion on the moral/existential aspects of the dilemma, or perhaps trilemma, of the problem, not the political. Though, as the NYT article below shows, the problem invites political opportunists... By "trilemma," I mean there are traumatic consequences for policies no matter whether they are pronatalist, antinatalist, or whatever vision of a sustainable population equilibrium one might entertain. If you think there's a way out, let's talk...

Related

"White House Assesses Ways to Persuade Women to Have More Children," Caroline Kitchener, The New York Times.

Image from Aporia (2023) film