Fruits of Philosophy: A Treatise on the Population Question by Charles Knowlton

"Fruits of Philosophy: A Treatise on the Population Question" by Charles Knowlton is a scientific publication written in the mid-19th century. This treatise addresses the vital concerns of population control and reproductive health, advocating for informed and voluntary methods of limiting offspring in order to promote social and political welfare. It dives into discussions about the implications of unrestrained population growth on societal well-being and introduces a philosophical framework around human reproduction. At the start of the treatise, the authors present a preface emphasizing the historical context of Knowlton's work, highlighting past challenges related to its publication. They outline the urgency of addressing the population question, suggesting that unchecked growth would lead to significant societal suffering, and emphasize the necessity for "scientific checks" to population growth as opposed to existing moral and physical restraints. In the subsequent philosophical proem, the notion of consciousness is explored, with a focus on the relationship between sensation, happiness, and the moral implications of reproduction. This sets the stage for the later chapters, where Knowlton discusses the practical aspects of generation, the institution of marriage, and ethical considerations surrounding reproduction. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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About this eBook

Author Knowlton, Charles, 1800-1850
Editor Besant, Annie, 1847-1933
Editor Bradlaugh, Charles, 1833-1891
Title Fruits of Philosophy: A Treatise on the Population Question
Credits Produced by David Widger
Reading Level Reading ease score: 52.7 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
Language English
LoC Class HB: Social sciences: Economic theory, Demography
LoC Class HQ: Social sciences: The family, Marriage, Sex and Gender
Subject Birth control
Subject Malthusianism
Category Text
eBook-No. 38185
Release Date
Last Update Jan 29, 2013
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
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