Marriage Argumentative Essay

Established with Adam and Eve, still surviving, marriage is the oldest institution known. Often the climax of most romantic movies and stories, whether it may be ‘Pride and Prejudice’ or ‘Dil Wale Dulhaniya Ley Jaein Gey’, marriage has a universal appeal. It continues to be the most intimate social network, providing the strongest and most frequent opportunity for social and emotional support. Though, over the years, marriage appears to be tarnished with high divorce rates, discontentment and infidelity, it is still a principal source of happiness in the lives of respective partners. Although marriage is perceived as a deeply flawed institution serving more the needs of the society than those of the individuals, nevertheless, marriage is strongly supported because it has a significant positive influence on health and longevity outcomes of both partners.
The definition of marriage has changed considerably over time. In ancient times marriage was a covenant based relationship; laws governed the choice of partners in Hebrew culture whereas in Greek and Northern Europe a bride was either purchased or captured. In the 15th and 16th century, Church and other religious authorities were heads of the institute of marriage. Today marriage is the product of centuries of change in custom and law. The concept of marriage varies with culture, however, government and religious laws dictate it. (How the definition of marriage has changed over time)
Marriage, as agreed by everyone, is a fundamental social institution. A social institution is the “network of shared meanings, norms, definitions, expectations and understandings held by the members of a society” (Traditional Marriage is Essential for a Healthy Society). This institution is universal, existing in all cultures since pre history. Though the dynamics of marriage have changed over the centuries, the concept of the institution is still to encourage procreation, ensuring a stable family structure in which children will be