Is the global fertility decline a crisis?

The article explains that fertility rates are declining in the US and globally, with the US at 1.6 births per woman versus a 2.1 replacement rate. It uses Syracuse University's enrollment shortfall as an early sign of the 'demographic cliff,' then reviews the main metrics demographers use and the leading explanations for the decline, including economic modernity, women's autonomy, and technology. The author argues the decline deserves serious attention regardless of politics and closes with a personal, pro-natalist reflection, noting experts broadly agree a shrinking population poses economic risks.