In most modern countries birthrates have been going down for decades and divorce rates have been climbing. Can we blame it on evermore egocentric citizens? Or is the economy responsible? We are certainly heading for a more single lifestyle societies – and the old family construct of a ‘breeding contract’ is no longer intact. Many woman just do on their own – being on your own is no longer shunned by society, religion or politics. But also the relationship models are no longer built for eternity. We also live much longer and (have) to change much more within a lifetime. Also our modern speed is killing the social fabric.

The job for life and the family for life ideals are long gone. Birth and divorce rates are simply reflecting this new reality.

But modern societies are still not perfectly adapted for these new ways. Divorce laws are often arcane or favor one side of the equation. Also the patchwork families and unmarried relationships have to be honored better. Not enough big companies offer internal Kindergartens for their employees. There is a lot to be done.