Of course children cost money. But here, it is considered normal for the state to spend some money to help parents pay for the costs of having children.

Family planning is important and money should be spent on it.

But instead of spending all state money for family planning, why not spend it also in daycare centers, family support groups, etc ?

That would help the economy also wouldn’t it ?

In essence, it is a “bail-out” for the states. She really didn’t answer George’s question as to why she thinks family planning would be the most effective use of those funds.

She did not make an argument to the effect “Having babies costs money. Would-be parents need to save their money by not having babies.” that is a straw man’s attack and doesn’t really make her answer for her poor response.

I can’t believe she said that. Horrendously irresponsible, in my opinion. Thanks for such an articulate post.

Thank for sharing.

Economically speaking, spending is what spurs on an economy, and having children makes you spend! I have 2 under 3, only 3 years out of college. The world would look at me as a fool who has dashed my career to pieces by having children. Pelosi’s comments got me thinking about how much more I spend because of my children. But then I also had to weigh in the fact that because of our 2 unexpected pregnancies, I had to push harder to advance my career so that my wife could stay home with our children. So in all reality, I am considerably further down my career path than I would have been without children.

So both Biblically and economically, Pelosi is way off base.

What better way to cause people to spend money than to have kids? Diapers, toys, clothes, food, baby gates, etc, etc.

Thanks for thoughts. Here’s some more background on my thinking, if you’re interested.

As I go over in my About page, I see the societal dimension of things (economics, politics) as a component of productivity.

So there is productivity in our work, regular lives, businesses/organizations, and then also society. I want to hit on all four components of productivity. I think that is unique — I don’t see anyone making the connection that how we think about _economic issues_ is actually a component of _productivity_ (namely, the productivity of groups — society).

But posts on workflow and personal productivity in life and work will always be a big part of the blog.

Anyone who devalues life after it is already created (in the womb) for the sake of personal convenience (abortion on demand) will not have trouble devaluing it for the sake of money.