Hell on two legs - the Tiny Generation

Sydney Morning Herald ^ | 4/12/05 | Hugh Mackay

[Baby Bear]

My concern is not to let another Dark Ages happen. That would be truly a set back for civilization.

That will only happen if we completely lose the use of technology or it become monopolized by the wealthy. More likely, the gov't with the help of corporations will completely take over during a serious global panic with people's blessings out of fear of losing their comfy status.

Or the future generations will simply start to "reduce the redundant"...

[MEGoody]

"Making babies makes you selfless?"

That would, of course, depend on why you have them. But not having children so one can purchase a better car or home does make one selfish. (And as the article points out, the decision to have children or not have them does affect society as a whole.)

[GoodWithBarbarians JustForKaos]

These kids today!!!

For 20+ years kids are being brought up to be selfish, screaming brats because of parents with no clue of how to instill common courtesy, morality or civility in their children and who wouldn't dare spank their backsides due to fear of being considered an abusive parent. It's the me-me-me generation now!

[humblegunner]

who exhibit the characteristic confidence and self-centredness of the only child.

WOOHOO! That's me! And the concept of "sharing" is so fully alien I'm at a loss to put it to words.

[SaltyJoe]

I should put myself up for adoption in Australia. I need some good spoiling.

For adoption:

One Roman Catholic mid-30s American male. Reverent, loves the Sacraments.

Former US Marine, expert shot, has own firearms (no need to supply any). Quick learner, patriotic, deeply respectful and gracious to all allies. Has only a working knowledge of the language but can almost fake proper English. Knows the difference between rugby and football (both US football AND international football...sometimes called "soccer" by Yanks). Stays in shape and is a dead ringer for Captain Morgan. Can ride a horse and motorcycle though not both at the same time. Goes by the name "Joe".

WARNING, highly opinionated...but has been known to apologize on more than one occasion for being wrong (just has to be reminded once in a while, not a lot, definitely not incessantly, that he's wrong).

Can do housework and change poopy diapers without making a fuss. Requires only coffee in the morning and maybe an energy drink throughout the day. Loves dogs and cats.

[Richard Kimball]

L8R

[qam1]

Actually unlike Australia it seems, We already have child-free housing poping up all over the place. They are called Age restricted housing (a.k.a. vasectomy zoning) where they only sell houses to people over 55 which pretty much insures they will not (and won't) have small children.

It's a pretty slick way for the Boomers & above to get out of paying school taxes.

[the OlLine Rebel]

"But not having children so one can purchase a better car or home does make one selfish."


I have to ask - so? Isn't it moot then? What does it matter, if the "selfish" person at least is not burdening both a child(ren) or even the rest of us w/having a child while being "selfish"?

[MEGoody]

"I have to ask - so?"

So its selfish.

[the OlLine Rebel]

So is having a kid cuz you think it's "the thing to do", and every1 needs 1 or else you'll look abnormal; kids are often a status symbol. Unfortunately, the latter version of selfishness potentially damages the innocent person you bring into the world.

[MEGoody]

"So is having a kid cuz you think it's "the thing to do", and every1 needs 1 or else you'll look abnormal"

I would agree with that.

[LibertarianInExile]

In compensation, though, unemployment will be a thing of the past. When it comes to jobs, they'll be able to pick and choose, just like their grandparents did in the 1950s.

Now, where have I heard this horsecrap before...oh, yeah. They were talking about Gen X. Sure, they'll always be able to get an ENTRY-level job. But the generation before them will probably die on the clock.

That means that generation will have to leave employment and enter small business to make any money. And THAT is why after Gen X and Gen Y are through, the economy will be roaring. Ditto the Tinies.

[LibertarianInExile]

Yep. I grew up near it in Florida. You shoulda seen how those SOBs reacted to young kids straying into their geezer preserves. What a bunch of selfish old bastards.

It makes me smile knowing with certainty that almost all of them are dead.

[PurVirgo]

As a server, I must wholeheartedly agree. I adore children, and don't really mind an occasional outburst, it's endearing almost.

But a brat? Darting between my feet, while I'm carrying an impossibly heavy tray is no fun at all!!