Marriage is a cultural institution that has existed for centuries, and it serves various purposes in society. One of its functions is to organize economic dependency, social hierarchy, and emotional regulation within intimate partnerships. Marriage can be defined as an agreement between two individuals who commit themselves to each other financially, socially, emotionally, and legally. It is a binding contract that establishes a legal relationship between two people, making them responsible for one another's well-being. In this context, marriage is more than just a romantic union; it becomes a political tool used by states to control citizens and their behavior.
The economic aspect of marriage refers to the financial benefits enjoyed by married couples.
Married couples are allowed to file joint tax returns, which reduces their overall income tax bill. They also have access to social security benefits, which can improve their quality of life in retirement.
They can access health insurance benefits under their spouse's employer plan, saving them money. The state provides these benefits because it wants to encourage people to marry, believing that it promotes stability in society.
This system creates economic dependence since one partner may become financially dependent on the other. This situation often leads to gender inequality where women are expected to take care of children and domestic duties while men provide financial support.
Social hierarchy is another function of marriage that regulates relationships in different ways. Traditionally, marriage was seen as a way to maintain class distinctions. Upper-class families would match their daughters with wealthy men from similar backgrounds to preserve their status. These marriages were often arranged by parents, not based on love or compatibility but to enhance family connections and expand business ventures. Marriage also enforces social norms by restricting sexuality within heteronormative boundaries. People who deviate from this norm are considered abnormal, immoral, and unacceptable. Therefore, marriage reinforces conservatism and prevents new ideas from challenging traditional values.
Marriage also plays an essential role in regulating emotional bonds between partners. It allows for mutual commitment, loyalty, trust, and respect. Couples vow to remain faithful and committed to each other through thick and thin, creating a sense of security and safety. Emotional regulation helps partners deal with stress, conflict, and difficult situations without causing harm or breaking up. It ensures that both parties receive emotional fulfillment and intimacy within the relationship.
Marriage functions as a political institution that organizes economic dependency, social hierarchy, and emotional regulation within intimate partnerships. While it provides many benefits, it can be problematic since it creates power imbalances and perpetuates gender stereotypes.
Some people choose to marry out of genuine affection and commitment, regardless of its negative aspects. The government should strive to promote equality and diversity while still recognizing the importance of marriage as a cultural institution.
How does marriage function as a political institution that organizes economic dependency, social hierarchy, and emotional regulation within intimate partnerships?
Marriage is a long-standing tradition with various cultural meanings worldwide. It serves as an institution that establishes the legal rights of individuals and couples in terms of property and finances, which can influence their lifestyle choices. The institution of marriage has been evolving over time; it began as a way for men to acquire property through their wives but today has shifted into something more complex.