There are no doubts already that the world is facing the worst economic downturn since 1929. It will take some time to recover from it and we will need to put many efforts to fight it, trying to have the least possible losses.

Economic decline affects all parts of people's lives - starting with current decisions and ending with long-term plans, like childbearing. Theory of economics says that in difficult times people are more reluctant to have children. This is obviously logical - we do not want to have children if we are not sure about our future. The birth rate is an indicator of financial security and confidence in future, because, speaking in business jargon, children are luxury goods. And we tend to drop those in tight economy. We also have a proof from reality for this affirmation - during the Great Depression the birth rate plunged in a great number.

However, it is still not clear how the recent crisis will affect the birth rate. On the one hand, those who planned children will have second thoughts. Keeping a job, preserving a place to live and making ends meet will be the top pressing priorities for many. For example, condoms' sales are already hopping up in recent weeks.

On the other hand, there is a new tendency occurring. Childbearing, together with marriage is seen as a way of assuring state help in a form of child benefits and family allowances. Also, maternity and paternity leaves can help to guarantee job security. Moreover, it is easier to cope with problems and uncertainty, both financial and psychological, in a family. A child could be the best motivator for many, who otherwise would give up and fell into depression. This new 'strategy' could change the theory of economics. Finally, when people are spending less on entertainment and staying at home more, one of the most enjoyable and distressing activities is making love...

What are your thoughts on this challenging idea? Will the birth rate plummet in all the world according the known logic? Or will we be witnesses of how unpredictable human mind really is and the birth rate will remain at present level or even rise a bit?