Marriage as a Social Institution

Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. According to the author, what is marriage?
Ans: According to the author, marriage is a sum of two spouses defined by legal, moral, and conventional assumptions.

b. How is marriage an institution?
Ans: Marriage is an institution as it is culturally patterned and integrated into other basic social institutions, such as education,
the economy, and politics.

c. What are the rules that a marriage has?
Ans: The rules that marriage has is to create gentle boundaries and influence the partners in various ways beyond their union.

d. Why does marriage matter to men?
Ans: Marriage matters to men because it provides a way of living and helps them to take the correct path to achieve their dreams and goals.

e. What is one of the central problems in modern society?
Ans: One of the central problems in modern society is establishing legitimate boundaries around modern individuals’ seemingly limitless desires for well-being, comfort, luxury, and prestige.

f. What does social capital consist of?
Ans: Social capital consists of large connections between individuals who are linked by the bonds of trust and credibility.

g. What is normative marriage? Explain.
Ans: Normative marriage is a marriage that is based on established norms and values. For example, the six characteristics of normative marriage in the United States are marriages are joined freely by mature, heterosexual individuals, husbands are the primary earners, partners are sexually faithful and parents are involved.

Reference to the context

a. Discuss six dimensions that define normative marriage in America.
Ans: The six dimensions of normative marriage in America are marriages are joined freely by mature, heterosexual individuals, husbands are the primary earners, partners are sexually faithful and parents are involved. There is a set of rules that should be followed. Every place and culture has different marital rules that should be followed. Likewise in America, these six dimensions are followed. According to it, marriage can be done according to personal choice. There will be no obligations. There should be a proper understanding and loyal to each other. They must be faithful when it comes to sexual behavior. They can give birth to their new ones after they both get married. The marital relationship must be heterosexual i.e. opposite sexes. After the marriage, the husband will be the primary earner. There should be the involvement of their parents in their marriage.

b. Do marriages differ according to culture? How is your marriage practice different from marriage in America?
Ans: Yes, marriages differ according to culture. As we know that the rules that are followed during marriage are different according to place and culture. There are many variations in marriage within or across the country. Since there are many religions and castes and they follow their marital rules accordingly.

In Nepal, our marriage practice is different from marriage in America. In Nepal, most people follow the marital rules according to the Hindu culture and traditions but in America, they follow the rules according to the Christain culture. In our country Nepal, marriage is held by priest in either their home or in the temple but in America, marriage is held by Father in church. The basic things for marriage in Nepal are Sindhur and the colorful glass bead necklace. After the marriage, the bride will live in the groom’s home. In America, if no one objections, the couple swaps rings to represent their love and devotion to one another and their first kiss in public declares themselves husband and wife.

Reference beyond the text

a. Write an essay on the marriage practice in your own culture.
Ans: Marriage, a sacred and transformative union, shapes societies worldwide, carrying legal, social, and religious responsibilities. Evolving with time, modern society embraces transgender marriages, breaking past taboos. Various marriage practices, such as monogamy, polygamy, and polyandry, reflect the diverse cultural fabric of humanity.

As a Hindu, I cherish the rich traditions and values of my culture’s marriage practices. Guided by familial priests, the process begins with families meeting, building a social contract of love and commitment. Astrological harmony, while considered, coexists with the belief in true love’s transcendence.

The wedding day is a majestic celebration, marked by elaborate rituals and blessings from elders, seeking divine prosperity. The sacred fire, “agni,” symbolizes eternal purity and bears witness to their union. The couple’s seven rounds around the fire signify sacred vows, strengthening their bond for life.

In my culture, marriage is more than an event; it unites not only two individuals but also two families. As we embrace the changing tides of time, we hold dear the essence of our traditions while fostering inclusivity and acceptance. Love knows no boundaries, and we celebrate the beauty of marriage in all its evolving forms, with open hearts and minds to build a harmonious and compassionate future.

b. Is marriage a social institution? Discuss.
Ans: Marriage is a social institution. It is the foundational building block for the family units which develop the relationship between men and women and commits to their undying love and long-lasting relationship. As a social institution, marriage plays a crucial role in defining the structure, values, and norms within a given culture or community. 

There are several aspects to show that marriage is a social institution. It is known as the union between two individuals which grants the rights and responsibilities towards family, society, and community. It carries the social recognization and approval and being married which grants the status and respect n the society. In many cultures, marriage is deeply intertwined with religious or cultural rituals and traditions. The ceremony and associated customs serve as a means to express the community’s values, beliefs, and identity. It provides and establishes legal and social ties between men and women. There is also the economic cooperation between them which lead their life and their upcoming generations’ life prosperous and productive. Emotional support is also provided and a sense of belonging among the partners. Marriage practices traditional culture and traditions which helps to protect and conserve our old culture and tradition. Hence, marriage serves as a critical social institution that fosters stability, unity, and emotional well-being within communities.