Here’s my favorite part from today’s WSJ Live Chat:

1:58
Allison Lichter: 

On the
Ideas Market blog, Will Wilkinson argues that your argument really only
applies to a narrow range of people:

  • middle-and-upper class couples who
  • already have at least one child,
  • are on the fence about having another one,
  • have been overestimating the costs of an additional child, and
  • have the right personalities to effectively practice “serenity parenting.”
Friday April 15, 2011 1:58 Allison Lichter
1:58
Allison Lichter: 

Can you reply to him?
Friday April 15, 2011 1:58 Allison Lichter
1:59
bcaplan: 

Sure.
First thing: There are *far* more people who fall in Will’s “narrow
range” than the audiences Will and I usually write for.

Friday April 15, 2011 1:59 bcaplan
1:59
bcaplan: 

Second:
Will’s understating the range. Plenty of people who *like* kids still
avoid having any because they think the sacrifice is too high.

Friday April 15, 2011 1:59 bcaplan
2:00
bcaplan: 

Third:
The “fence” is pretty wide. I’m not showing parents how to save a few
minutes a week. I’m showing them how to save hours – and enjoy the rest
more.

Friday April 15, 2011 2:00 bcaplan
2:01
bcaplan: 

Fourth: Since the nature-nurture evidence is very poorly publicized, I think almost everyone overestimates the cost.

Friday April 15, 2011 2:01 bcaplan
2:02
bcaplan: 

Last:
Serenity Parenting isn’t either/or. It appeals to some people more than
others, but anyone can move in a serene direction. 🙂