I think it’s true especially when it comes to children. Remember now that value can be either positive or negative, and it’s as much about the pursuit of pleasure as it is the flight from pain. Can you imagine the emotional toll involved in giving up a child “you don’t want?” Dead beat dads who abandon their kids and refuse to pay child support, must likely don’t value enough either negatively or positively. Guilt can be a powerful motivation to provide support.

As the children become adults, you’ll see that various cultures have a different approach to filial care. If you’re a parent in the West, you’re least likely to enjoy utility value from your children when you’re old and frail.