Why The Pope Can't Change The Church's Position On Birth Control

With the death of Pope John Paul II who has been called "a champion for the poor," it is significant to remember that some of their poverty might be attributed to Catholic policy which oppresses birth control. Population Connection (formerly Zero Population Growth) President tells the real story of the effects of the population explosion on poverty in his story, "Invisible People" in the organization's magazine, The Reporter.

According to some of the CNN stories I watched, the Catholic Church has expanded its "flock" by vigorous efforts in Third World countries in Southeast Asia, Africa and South America. Not coincidentally these are the places in which birthrates are exploding our of control.

In order to understand why the Pope said he loved the poor but encouraged (and the Church continues to encourage) them to procreate themselves into greater poverty, read "Why The Pope Can't Change The Church's Position On Birth Control: Implications For Americans" A 1999 presentation by Stephen D. Mumford PhD for The Center for Research on Population and Security.

Note: I offer my condolences to all of those saddened by the Pope's death and mean this in no way as disrespect to Catholics nor to a man who has died. I offer this post to all who wish a better world as food for thought.