Poverty continues to run rampant in America, especially with the rising cost of living and a national minimum wage that can barely support one person (let alone an entire family). That said, Johnathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” definitely has some real-world application today. Obviously, I’m not talking about eating children or considering a woman’s only role to be a “breeder,” but the overall ideas and messages within this work are still seen even in the 21st century.
A key idea following the poverty that Swift discusses his country going through is that of a food shortage in families, specifically due to a lack of funds. The very idea of eating babies comes from the lack of nutritional foods that impoverished families can afford, especially when they need to feed children as well. This issue can be found in America today, where many families choose the cheapest options instead of the most nutritious. A few years ago, fast food was the main choice for those who couldn’t afford a lot in terms of food. However, today, fast food can be just as expensive as a home-cooked meal, if not even more pricy. So, the question of what these impoverished families eat is left to question. Although his idea of eating babies seems absurd, it highlights the very important issue of a lack of resources for those who are not well off.
Furthermore, Swift mentions the fact that if babies were to be of such a high value, men wouldn’t beat their wives anymore, as it could cause a potential miscarriage. Again, as absurd an idea as this is, he makes a very good point. Domestic abuse is very real and becomes even more prominent when funds are tight and the origin of the next meal isn’t certain. More often than not, abuse in impoverished families is swept under the rug and almost becomes an expectation at times. So not only is Swift commenting on the fact that the poor are struggling to find food and funds, but they are also experiencing even more abuse from the ones closest to them.
Overall, despite the many…interesting ideas conveyed in this work, the overarching theme is one of great importance. Poverty doesn’t just affect a single family; it is a societal issue that is multifaceted in its effects on families and the world as a whole. Personally, I can see parallels in some of the issues Swift mentions with issues our world faces today. As outrageous as this proposal may be, it’s truly a call to action to help those in need before the entire world plunges into poverty and disrepair.