Antinatalism, Environmental Ethics, and Feminism

Abstract

Abstract This chapter examines issues of antinatalism in the context of global challenges on Earth such as climate change and “overpopulation.” The chapter discusses topics inherent in population ethics and looks at the controversial idea of population reduction, pointing out its contentious dimensions. A critique of these ideals specific to feminist bioethics is presented, as well as a critique of antinatalism, clearly distinguishing discriminatory political antinatalism from philosophical antinatalism. Philosophical issues related to the notion of a life worth living, as well as concern for future people, are discussed. The chapter also draws attention to ecofeminism in both the earthly context and regarding our expansion into space.