In American Society vs Other Cultures: The Ideals of Marriage

Romantic Love vs Economic Arrangement in Marriage

In American society, romantic love is often considered the main reason for people to get married. The idea of marrying for love is deeply rooted in Western culture, with an emphasis on finding a soulmate and life partner based on love and mutual affection.

On the other hand, in some societies, romantic love is viewed as a form of obsession or madness. In cultures where traditional values and family expectations play a significant role in marriage decisions, the concept of marrying for love might be seen as impractical or even undesirable.

Furthermore, it's important to recognize that in many societies, including those where romantic love is not considered madness, arranged marriages are still prevalent. In these societies, marriage is often seen as an economic arrangement rather than a result of romantic feelings.

Marriage as an Economic Arrangement

In certain cultures, such as agricultural societies, marriage serves as an economic contract between families. For example, a farmer may seek a wife not just for companionship but also for bearing children and helping with farm work. In this context, marriage is viewed as a practical way to ensure the continuation of the farm and provide additional labor.

Similarly, in some societies, marriage is primarily about establishing and strengthening connections between families. This is evident in the history of European royal and aristocratic marriages, where alliances were often formed through strategic marriages to maintain power, wealth, and social status.