Judaism - Choosing to be childless

[Dana]

I don't think there can be a blanket rule. I would not encourage people to not have children because of environmental reasons, but I also would not encourage people to have children if they don't have a desire to. It is difficult in Judaism (at least in the Orthodox world) to not have kids. I can't even count the number of times that a frum person has looked at me with pity when I tell them I don't have kids.

Catholicism in the 50's and 60's, the era I was born into  women's bodies were for baby making and if the family broke up from the strain there was always adoption waiting in the wings as if children could be considered interchangeable parts. 

I find in this regard I'm with the  progressive movements that  say no to bringing more children into existence, due to religious obligation.    I think women that were born in that era and chose not to have children had an uphill battle while there were some with the rare foresight to act on choosing a different path.  

My concern lies with children who do not ask to be born, not with the environment and I hope to see the day all religions support the woman's decision to remain childless without explanation.  I'm somewhat on the pessimistic side.

Thanks for commenting Chavak.