A Modest Proposal

The problem of over population is a problem that can be found almost any where around the world. And though different solution have been offered none are quite like the one Jonathan swift comes up with in his writing of the “A Modest Proposal”.

         The problem Swift explains is that the poor have more children then they have the means to support. These mothers instead of being able to work for their honest livelihood, are forced to employ all their time in strolling to beg sustenance for their helpless infants who, as they grow up, either turn thieves for want of work, or leave their dear native country, to fight for the Pretender in Spain, or sell themselves to the Barbadoes”. “There is over population due to mothers that aren’t able to work because they are handling their children and when these children grow up they either become thieves or leave the country; which rises another problem.

         Swift’s propose is one of a kind. I don’t believe it is a serious suggestion but one that commands so much attention that you have to read it. He proses that he suggests that to end the economic downfall in Ireland they should kill the babies by the pound or shilling, making a spoof of the rich farmers. He says they should slaughter and sell they for food and to make things such as gloves or boots. When I began reading this I was stunned at the gruesome statements. After which I realized his reaction to the problem was so extreme because he wanted people to understand how serious condition were and how bad they needed a change.

He also suggested that if less children are being produced then there won’t be so many thieves there for cutting down the crime rate and the amount of beggers which in return would raise the wealth of the area.