I think Erik's question is beyond the present; beyond the ability for a family to provide for their offspring. The question is about finite resources for an ever expanding population who all demand a greater quality of life. The very idea of growth for growths sake is at the very least unsustainable, and at the worst disastrous.

So sure, some family might be able to support their massive brood, but what happens when those X children procreate? Our society champions the growth of the family without understanding the global implications of a blossoming population. Competition for resources (petrochemicals - or rather, all carbon based energy, water, agriculture, land) will just continue to grow, and for what?

Something Josh told me rings true - every indicator for a positive economy hinges on growth. Anything else is labeled with the negative connotation of stagnation or decline. As a species we have no objective aside from making our life easier... so we'll continue to breed uncontrollably and squabble over finite resources. Thus the question, is it a right or a privilege to procreate? Is it responsible to have more than 2 children per couple?