Arranged marriage

Definition

Arranged marriage is a marital practice in which the families or guardians of the couple take a leading role in selecting their partners, often prioritizing social, economic, or cultural considerations over personal choice. This practice is rooted in various traditions and can be found in many cultures around the world, reflecting broader societal norms and values concerning family, kinship, and the institution of marriage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arranged marriages can vary widely in their execution; some couples may have little to no say in their partner selection, while others are allowed to meet and get to know each other before making a commitment.
2. This practice is often rooted in cultural traditions that emphasize family values, community ties, and social stability over individual preferences.
3. In many societies where arranged marriages are common, families may consider factors such as caste, religion, education level, and socioeconomic status when selecting a spouse.
4. Arranged marriages can sometimes result in successful partnerships due to shared backgrounds and family support, though they may also lead to challenges if individuals feel pressured into the union.
5. The rise of globalization and changing social norms has led to evolving perspectives on arranged marriages, with some individuals opting for more autonomy while still respecting family input.

Review Questions

• How do arranged marriages reflect the cultural values and social structures of societies that practice them?
  • Arranged marriages often embody cultural values that prioritize family cohesion, social stability, and collective decision-making over individual autonomy. In societies where these practices are common, the family's role in partner selection signifies a commitment to preserving social ties and aligning with community expectations. The emphasis on factors like caste, religion, and socioeconomic status showcases how arranged marriages serve to reinforce existing social structures and maintain traditional norms.
• Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of arranged marriages compared to love marriages.
  • Arranged marriages can offer advantages such as strong family support, compatibility based on shared backgrounds, and reduced pressure on individuals to find partners independently. However, they may also pose disadvantages like limited personal choice and potential emotional disconnect if individuals feel coerced. In contrast, love marriages emphasize personal preference and emotional connection but can sometimes lack familial support, which may affect long-term stability.
• Evaluate how globalization is influencing attitudes towards arranged marriages and their practices in contemporary society.
  • Globalization has brought about significant changes in attitudes toward arranged marriages as individuals gain exposure to different cultural norms and values through media and migration. Many people are increasingly advocating for personal choice within arranged settings, allowing for hybrid models where families assist in partner selection while also considering individual preferences. This shift reflects a broader trend toward balancing tradition with modernity, leading to a redefinition of arranged marriages that respects both familial input and personal autonomy.

Related terms

love marriage: A marriage based primarily on the romantic love and mutual consent of the couple rather than family arrangement.

dowry: A transfer of parental property, wealth, or goods that is given to the groom or his family as part of the marriage agreement.

patrilineality: A system of inheritance and lineage in which lineage is traced through the father's side, often influencing marriage patterns.