Among Young People, Career is More Important than Starting a Family

The cultural change that has left organized Christianity in decline also leaves other values of previous generations behind. One is the goal of getting married and starting a family.

According the the poll of some 19 thousand young people, marriage and forming a family did not reach a majority. It was higher among Christians than non Christians but a large proportion of young Christians did not hold it as the highest priority.

When I was a young person marriage and family seemed highest on everyone's list. I can see in my five grandchildren it is different. They bring up a vague future of having children but don't seem to be moving a direction that takes them there. They discuss career options and great causes and issues almost exclusively.

Only time will tell if this survey can be replicated or if attitudes change yet again. To the extent it prevails it challenges lots of conventional wisdom.

It is often said Muslims will rule the world because their birth rates are higher. At the moment this is true but the link tells us the trend toward later marriage and fewer children is affecting Islam also.

Then, there is the claim that abortion is becoming less acceptable the this will build support to make it illegal. Whatever the source of this view, it certainly is contrary to the heavy focus on careers instead of focus on family. Whatever pregnancies take place are and will continue to be carefully planned. Abortion is part of family planning.

Based on what is happening now, the future appears to be one with later marriages and fewer children. Unfortunately, there are so many people in the world it still means population growth for many years ahead and the environmental stress that goes with it.

The old saying, "The future belongs to the young" still is true and it keeps us guessing.