This literature review examines the philosophical underpinnings of antinatalism—the ethical position that assigns negative value to birth—and traces how its arguments have evolved over time by analyzing the ethical frameworks employed by contemporary scholars. The literature reveals a complex interplay between utilitarian, deontological, and rights-based approaches to antinatalism. Contemporary studies demonstrate that while antinatalism remains controversial, it has gained academic legitimacy through increasingly philosophical arguments that challenge traditional pronatalist assumptions. This review identifies several critical gaps in current research, particularly regarding cross-cultural perspectives and the tension between antinatalist principles and human psychological needs.