Reflections on the Decline of the Family

 

Traditionally, the term “family” meant a male and female united to produce children.

Since a species – including human – dies off if it doesn’t reproduce, civilizations from ancient times have honored the role of families.  In fact, the importance of the family was recognized long ago in the formalization of the relationship of the man and woman in marriage.  Plainly, such relationships can exist without formal sanction.  But such historically were proscribed both socially, religiously and criminally (adultery and fornication).

As a matter of experience as well as moral admonitions – it would seem that people recognized that raising children in wedlock, with both parents present, was in the off-springs’ best interest.  They were healthier in all sorts of ways (modern-day empirical studies have reached the same conclusions).

Let me make an elementary observation that is obvious indeed.  The desire for sex is what draws men and women together.  But that does not mean that children will inevitably begotten.  Is there an innate desire to have children as there is a sex drive?  The apparent results of the sexual revolution which began in the 1960s places that proposition into doubt.  The birth rate in America has declined since then.  (It is now well below the rate of replenishment, much less expansion.)

The existence of a sex drive is a given.  There is reason to believe an urge to reproduce is not as strong a factor of human nature.

If it were, why would God command his people to procreate (Genesis 1:28)?

From an evolutionary perspective, wouldn’t sex outside of marriage be proscribed to promote it exclusively within?  Sexual intercourse would lead to conception and the birth of children within the sanctity of the marriage in a desirable outcome for society’s welfare.

The desire for sexual relations was not to be stunted – human nature would not permit it – but the practice could be restricted to serve beneficial ends.

Attitudes today support the disconnect between sex and having children.  Think of articles in the press of young couples championing the existence of “the pill”, etc., so they can enjoy each other’s company without worrying about bringing a child between them.

The family, as historically construed and supported, no longer can be counted upon to serve the broader society’s interest in providing healthy new generations.  Rather, we confront the reality that 40% of America’s children are born to single mothers.  (European statistics are similar, by the way.)  What will become of them – or us?  Prospects aren’t promising.

NOTE:  As The Sensible Conservative, I strive to be optimistic, but that is hard to do when noting the increasing societal deficiencies all around us.      That is not hyperbole.