[colorado tanker]

Birth rates have been falling in the West for well over a century, before widespread availability of contraception. The main factors were postponed childbearing and urbanization, making children a financial expense instead of asset.

No country experiencing urbanization and development has been able to counter this trend.

[originalbuckeye]

Well, I grew up in the 50’s and there were 4 kids in our family. Most of my friends were in families that had at least 4 kids. One of my friends was one of twelve kids. I think the Sexual Revolution and the rise of Feminism are the main factors in the decline in our population. And don’t forget that Third Ril of Liberalism in the 60’s, ZPG. Zero Population Growth. Most families thee days are just relaxing the Mother and Father with only having two kids. Some of us were only able to have one child. I hope future generations will see the benefit of kids.......my generation was made to feel guilty for wanting kids at all.

[Amberdawn]

True, gone are the days when families relied on large broods to help out on the family farm too.

[Mrs. Don-o]

"No country experiencing urbanization and development has been able to counter this trend [collapse of birth rate.]"

That's largely true, but not quite 100%. As far as I know, Israel stands alone, with a total fertility rate of 3.1, as the *only* developed country with a TFR above replacement.

And the Israeli Jewish fertility rate recently topped the Israeli Arab rate for the first time in the nation's history.

Good work, Jewish brothers and sisters!