You often hear academics say that overpopulation is a grave threat to the planet. But what about underpopulation? This is where developing nations stop having kids and then don't have enough people to maintain their economy and care for the elderly. Japan is a prime example of what happens when population declines. According to Business Insider Japan has entered “a vicious cycle of low fertility and low spending that has led to trillions in lost GDP and a population decline of 1 million people, all within just the past five years.” Economists say that the trend will lead to a recession and “a breakdown in the fabric of social life.” America is experiencing a similar birthrate decline and if we wish to avoid a catastrophe, children should be viewed as a blessing, not just to parents but to society at large.