Elon Musk has sparked a debate with a recent tweet suggesting that society needs to learn the fear of childlessness instead of the fear of pregnancy. The comment has drawn both support and criticism, adding to the ongoing debate over declining birth rates and Musk’s views on population issues.
Musk, who recently became a father for the twelfth time earlier this year, has consistently expressed concern about global underpopulation. He believes that encouraging people, especially those with high IQs, to have more children is crucial for the future of civilization. Musk’s large family underlines his commitment to this faith.
The billionaire has children with three women: five with his first wife, author Justine Musk, three with Canadian musician Grimes, and three with Shivon Zilis, Neuralink’s chief operating officer. Zilis, who had twins with Musk in 2021, reportedly gave birth to their third child earlier this year, according to Bloomberg.
Zilis, a Yale graduate with a background in economics and philosophy, has been an important figure in Musk’s life, both professionally and personally. She joined Neuralink in 2017 and previously worked at OpenAI, another Musk-founded company. Their personal relationship became public in 2022 when they petitioned to have both parents’ surnames included as middle names for their twins.
Musk’s tweet is consistent with his pro-natalist views, but critics argue it downplays the challenges of pregnancy and parenthood. Many highlight the risks women face during pregnancy, such as rising maternal mortality rates in the United States. Grimes, who shares three children with Musk, has spoken openly about the life-threatening complications she experienced during her first pregnancy, leading the couple to opt for a surrogate mother for their second child.
Elon, I would rather have no children than have twelve children from multiple women I rarely or never see.
If you were an average Joe, you’d be labeled as a lousy father, but since you’re the richest man in the world, it seems like you get a passing grade.
— Joe Bangles CBE (@JoeBangles11) November 17, 2024
We need kids that don’t cost millions of dollars than brother
— NBA slime (@TerryFranconia) November 17, 2024
Supporters of Musk’s statement argue that it challenges a culture that often emphasizes the difficulties of parenthood while neglecting its joys and social benefits. Musk’s views resonate with the pro-natalist movement, which advocates higher birth rates in developed countries. However, critics express concerns about the movement’s ties to eugenics and possible misogynistic undertones.
Having children is part of preserving your legacy
Nobody talks about it from that angle
— Marjorie Taylor Greene Press Release (parody) (@MTGrepp) November 17, 2024
The mainstream media has brainwashed and scared people into not having children.
— PeterSweden (@PeterSweden7) November 17, 2024
As Musk continues to advocate for his vision for the future of humanity, his controversial comments are expected to remain a central topic in public and political discourse.