Elon Musk's Eugenic Dream

·36 min·3 clips

Elon Musk's most recent child was conceived through polygenic screening, a detailed genetic selection process.

The episode begins with Rusty Reno introducing Matthew Schmitz to discuss his article 'Elon's Family Values' from the April 2025 issue of First Things Magazine. Schmitz explains that Elon Musk has become a symbol of shifting political identities, moving from a Democratic-aligned green tech figure to a right-wing icon. The conversation centers on the fertility crisis in the West, with Schmitz noting that natalism has become mainstream across political spectrums. He outlines two responses: the left advocates for universal pre-K and the Nordic model, while the right is split between traditional religious views and Musk's techno-progressive approach. Schmitz details Musk's use of IVF for all children after his first marriage, including polygenic screening for his most recent child, which allows selection based on genetic traits like IQ and health risks. This is described as 'eugenics under the sign of choice,' contrasting with historical forced sterilization. The discussion touches on assortative mating and how wealthier individuals have higher fertility rates, exacerbating social divides. Schmitz argues that promoting marriage at younger ages is a better solution than technological interventions like surrogacy. He critiques the instrumental view of humans as 'elite human capital,' referencing writer Richard Hanania's praise and subsequent criticism of Musk. The tension between tech elites and traditional conservatives on the right is explored, with Schmitz suggesting that Musk's views may align more with future Democratic coalitions. The episode also delves into the philosophical implications, emphasizing that intelligence and physical traits do not guarantee noble aspirations or cultural values. Schmitz highlights the importance of family stability as a foundation for innovation and risk-taking, sharing personal anecdotes about his parents' religious values. The conversation concludes with reflections on political equality, the role of fixed social roles, and the potential dangers of a narrow focus on genetic optimization.

As heard by us

Musk becomes a test case for family, selection, and modern fertility.

First Things uses its conversation with Matthew Schmitz to frame Elon Musk as a test case for family values, selection, and modern fertility. It moves from rockets, Tesla, and SpaceX to IVF and embryo screening, and it lingers on the unsettling idea of children as a product of…

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When you want Musk treated as a moral problem, not just a headline.

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