Re: genetic genealogy

[JLG21447@aol.com]

Giving the quiz the once over and realizing how difficult it would be to 
trace families who were prolific breeders, I gave thanks that my ancestors 
usually had no more than 3 children per family unit. THEN, I started thinking 
if each of those 3 had 3. . . . Well, you know where it goes from there.

It's no wonder world population has become a "problem." I wish I could 
remember the name of the speaker, but I can't; anyway, this man said that if 
we limited each couple to 2 children, we would eventually dwindle back to the 
1970s population which, according to him, was just right for the disbursement 
of natural resources without a shortage.

It will never happen. There are too many religions that support large 
families: "Be fruitful and multiply." It's too bad the ancient 
lawmakers/priests didn't give this more thought. Alas, I too am guilty of 
adding to the "problem." I had 3 of the little darlings myself. Does my dog 
count? Make that 4. She's as much a part of the family as the children. But 
she's spayed. And before you start, no, I'm not advocating neutering humans. 
Although, when it comes to habitual criminals. . . . Ah, nevermind.

Johnnye St. Clair-Gerhardt
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