Marriage as a Social Institution

Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. According to the author, what is marriage?

According to the author, marriage is a relationship that goes beyond the individuals involved and is defined by legal, moral, and conventional assumptions. It is an institution culturally integrated into other social institutions, such as education, the economy, and politics.

b. How is marriage an institution?

Marriage is considered an institution because it is culturally patterned and has established rules and boundaries that differentiate it from other types of relationships. It is integrated into society through various social norms, laws, and customs. It provides a framework and structure for the lives of spouses and is interconnected with other social institutions.

c. What are the rules that a marriage has?

The rules of marriage are the commonly understood allowable limits of behavior that distinguish marriage from other relationships. These rules originate outside of any specific marriage and form soft boundaries around the relationship. They encompass expectations of fidelity, commitment, responsibilities to children, and the roles of husbands and wives within the marriage.

d. Why does marriage matter to men?

Marriage matters to men because it provides structure to their lives and organizes their ambitions. It offers a sense of purpose and meaning by channeling their desires and impulses in socially acceptable ways. Marriage serves as a restraining force that curbs their otherwise uncontrollable longings and desires, allowing them to find happiness within the confines of their marital commitments.

e. What is one of the central problems in modern society?

One of the central problems in modern society, as noted by the author, is establishing legitimate boundaries around desires for well-being, comfort, luxury, and prestige. With basic human necessities relatively accessible in advanced societies, the focus shifts to fulfilling these desires. However, without boundaries and social institutions like marriage, these desires can become insatiable and lead to social instability.

f. What does social capital consist of?

Social capital consists of extensive networks of individuals linked by bonds of trustworthiness and trust. It exists in the relations among people and is produced in relationships based on the belief that obligations will be incurred and repaid. It encompasses kinship ties, friendships, and networks that facilitate the exchange of knowledge, information, and assistance among members.

g. What is normative marriage? Explain.

Normative marriage refers to the idealized form of marriage in society. It is characterized by certain dimensions that define the expectations and roles within a marriage. These dimensions, as outlined by the author, include voluntary entry into marriage by mature, heterosexual adults, the expectation of the husband as the primary earner, sexual fidelity between partners, and the intention to become parents. Normative marriage represents the collective sentiments of society and serves as a form of social control, guiding appropriate behaviors and aspirations within the institution of marriage.

Reference to the context

a. Discuss six dimensions that define normative marriage in America.

The six dimensions that define normative marriage in America, as presented in the text, are as follows:

1. Voluntary entry: Normative marriage involves the voluntary decision of two individuals to enter into the marital union. It implies that both partners willingly choose to commit to each other in a marital relationship.
2. Maturity and heterosexuality: Normative marriage assumes that the individuals involved are mature adults who have reached a certain level of emotional and cognitive development. It also assumes that the marriage is between a man and a woman, adhering to the traditional gender binary.
3. Husband as the principal earner: In normative marriage, there is an expectation that the husband will be the primary breadwinner or the main financial provider for the family. This traditional division of labor assigns the role of earning income and financial responsibility to the husband.
4. Sexual fidelity: Normative marriage expects both partners to be sexually faithful to each other. It implies a commitment to exclusivity in intimate and sexual relationships, with the expectation that neither partner will engage in sexual relations outside the marriage.
5. Parenthood: Normative marriage includes the expectation that married partners will become parents or have the intention to have children. It acknowledges the societal norm of the married couple's responsibility to procreate and raise children within the marital unit.
6. Core ideals expressed in law, religion, and custom: These dimensions collectively form the core ideals of normative marriage, as expressed and reinforced by legal, religious, and cultural institutions. They shape the expectations, norms, and customs associated with marriage in American society.

It is important to note that while these dimensions represent the idealized form of normative marriage, actual marriages may deviate from these norms, and there is a wide range of diverse marital arrangements and practices present in contemporary society.

b. Do marriages differ according to culture? How is your marriage practice different from marriage in America?

Yes, marriages do differ according to culture. Marriage practices vary significantly across different cultures, reflecting the unique values, customs, traditions, and social structures of each society. The institution of marriage is shaped by cultural, religious, legal, and historical factors, resulting in diverse marriage practices worldwide.

Comparing marriage practices in Nepal and America, we can identify several notable differences:

1. Arranged marriages: In Nepal, arranged marriages are still prevalent, particularly in rural areas and among certain ethnic groups. Parents or family members play a significant role in finding suitable partners for their children. In contrast, arranged marriages are less common in mainstream American culture, where individuals typically have more autonomy in choosing their partners.
2. Age at marriage: In Nepal, early marriage has been a traditional practice, with many marriages occurring during adolescence. However, efforts to combat child marriage have made progress in recent years. In America, the age at marriage tends to be higher, with individuals often marrying in their twenties or later.
3. Role of extended family: In Nepal, marriage is often seen as a union between two families rather than just two individuals. Extended family members play a prominent role in the marriage process, including matchmaking, negotiation of dowry or bride price, and involvement in wedding ceremonies. In America, while families may be involved in the marriage process, the emphasis is more on the couple's relationship rather than the extended family's role.
4. Wedding ceremonies and rituals: Nepali wedding ceremonies are rich in cultural traditions and rituals that vary across different ethnic groups. These ceremonies often involve religious ceremonies, traditional attire, symbolic gestures, and elaborate celebrations lasting several days. American wedding ceremonies, on the other hand, vary greatly depending on personal preferences and cultural backgrounds but tend to be shorter and more focused on the couple's preferences and expressions of love and commitment.
5. Gender roles and expectations: In both Nepal and America, traditional gender roles have influenced marriage practices, although to varying degrees. In Nepal, there is a greater emphasis on gender roles and expectations, with women typically assuming more traditional domestic and caregiving roles, while men are expected to be the primary earners. In America, there has been a significant shift towards gender equality, with more emphasis on shared responsibilities and flexible gender roles within marriages.
6. Legal framework: Marriage in America is regulated by state laws and typically involves obtaining a marriage license. Divorce laws also vary across states, providing legal mechanisms for ending marriages. In Nepal, civil marriage laws exist, but religious and cultural practices often play a significant role in marriage, making it a more complex and multifaceted institution.

These are just a few examples of the differences between marriage practices in Nepal and America. It is important to note that within each country, there is also considerable diversity in marriage practices based on factors such as urbanization, education levels, socioeconomic status, and individual preferences.

Reference beyond the text

a. Write an essay on the marriage practice in your own culture.

Marriage Practices in Nepal: Tradition, Culture, and Changing Dynamics

Marriage is a significant institution in Nepali society, deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and religious beliefs. Nepal, a country rich in diversity, exhibits a wide range of marriage practices that vary across ethnic groups, regions, and social backgrounds. This essay explores the marriage practices in Nepal, highlighting the traditional aspects, evolving dynamics, and the influence of social change on the institution of marriage.

In traditional Nepali society, arranged marriages have been the norm. Parents or elders play a pivotal role in the marriage process, seeking suitable partners for their children based on factors such as caste, social status, family background, and compatibility. These arranged marriages often involve the negotiation of dowry or bride price, symbolizing the union of two families.

Nepali wedding ceremonies are colorful, elaborate, and deeply steeped in cultural and religious traditions. Different ethnic groups have their unique wedding customs, adding richness and diversity to the overall marriage practices in Nepal. Ceremonies typically include pre-wedding rituals, such as Sagai (engagement), Mehendi (henna application), and Janti (procession of the groom's party). The main wedding ceremony involves sacred rituals performed by a priest, with the exchange of vows and the tying of Mangalsutra (sacred necklace) symbolizing marital commitment.

Marriage in Nepal is not solely viewed as a union between two individuals but as a bond between families. Extended family members, particularly parents and elders, actively participate in the marriage process, offering guidance, support, and blessings. The involvement of the community is also significant, with weddings often being grand affairs attended by relatives, friends, and neighbors, fostering a sense of communal celebration and unity.

In recent years, Nepal has undergone significant social changes, leading to evolving dynamics in marriage practices. With increased urbanization, globalization, and access to education, the younger generation is exerting more agency and autonomy in choosing their life partners. Love marriages, where individuals select their partners based on mutual affection and compatibility, are becoming more common, especially among urban youths.

Furthermore, there has been a growing awareness of gender equality and women's empowerment. Women in Nepal are challenging traditional gender roles and asserting their rights in marital relationships. The practice of dowry, once prevalent, is gradually declining, as social movements and legal reforms work towards eradicating this harmful practice.

Nepal has implemented civil marriage laws that provide a legal framework for marriage registration and divorce. These laws aim to ensure the protection of individuals' rights and promote equality within marriages. Modernization and the influence of global trends have also led to changes in wedding ceremonies, with some couples opting for simpler, more intimate ceremonies that reflect their personal preferences.

Marriage in Nepal is a complex and multifaceted institution that intertwines tradition, culture, and social dynamics. While traditional arranged marriages continue to exist, the landscape is gradually transforming, with the emergence of love marriages and the empowerment of women. The interplay of tradition and modernization reflects the ongoing evolution of Nepali society. As Nepal progresses, it is essential to preserve the cultural heritage associated with marriage while embracing positive changes that promote equality, individual choice, and personal fulfillment within the institution.

b. Is marriage a social institution? Discuss.

Yes, marriage is widely regarded as a social institution. It is a fundamental social construct that is deeply embedded in the fabric of society, encompassing a broad range of cultural, legal, and religious norms, rules, and expectations. As a social institution, marriage serves several important functions and plays a significant role in shaping individuals' lives and society as a whole.

1. Regulation of Relationships: Marriage provides a recognized and sanctioned framework for establishing and regulating intimate relationships between individuals. It establishes a formalized bond between spouses, creating rights and obligations that govern their behavior, roles, and responsibilities within the marital union. By defining the parameters of a committed relationship, marriage helps to structure and stabilize personal connections.
2. Reproduction and Family Formation: One of the central purposes of marriage across cultures is to facilitate procreation and family formation. It provides a socially accepted context for raising children and ensures the continuity of kinship ties and family lineage. By establishing a legal and social framework for parenthood, marriage contributes to the stability and well-being of the family unit.
3. Socialization and Social Integration: Marriage serves as a mechanism for socializing individuals into societal norms, values, and roles. Through marriage, individuals learn about expected behaviors, gender roles, and responsibilities within the context of their community. The institution of marriage also facilitates social integration by creating networks of relationships between families, relatives, and communities.
4. Economic and Legal Benefits: Marriage often confers various economic and legal advantages to couples. These benefits may include joint property ownership, inheritance rights, tax advantages, access to healthcare and insurance, and legal protections. By formalizing the union, marriage establishes a framework for the distribution of resources, rights, and obligations within a legal and economic system.
5. Social Support and Emotional Well-being: Marriage provides a framework for emotional and social support between spouses. It offers companionship, intimacy, and a sense of belonging, fostering emotional stability and well-being. Married individuals often benefit from the emotional and practical support of their partners, enhancing their overall quality of life.
6. Symbolic and Cultural Significance: Marriage carries significant symbolic meaning in society, representing commitment, love, and the formation of a lifelong partnership. It is a recognized and celebrated milestone in many cultures, often accompanied by traditional ceremonies and rituals that reinforce cultural identity and community cohesion.

While marriage is a social institution, it is important to note that its form and practices can vary widely across cultures, religions, and historical periods. The specific rules, expectations, and significance of marriage are shaped by cultural norms, legal frameworks, and social values, which can evolve over time in response to societal changes and shifting attitudes.