The Role of the International Planned Parenthood Federation

Abstract

In fifty years we have moved out of the era when control of birth was a dark secret and its discussion could lead to jail. Now we are in a world where, with the exception of a small minority, we can discuss birth control and the planning of our families freely and sensibly as we discuss the dangers of sickness and the fear of death. The minority, of course, have their rights. They need not join in such discussions or take advantage of this phase of modern health technique if they do not want to do so. But they are an even smaller minority than is generally realized, much smaller than the Roman Catholic Church that is the only organized opposition in the world today, since the laity in this matter largely disagree with and ignore the teaching of their priests. They are so small in fact that their attempts to impose their views on the rest of the world are not only improper, but also impertinent. We respect their rights, they must respect ours. The great majority of the peoples of the world are behind us.