What’s The Point Of Marriage When You Can Just Love?

Marriage has been a longstanding institution in many cultures around the world. However, with changing societal norms and an increased emphasis on individualism, some may question the necessity of marriage when one can simply love without it.

The purpose of this article is to explore the traditional functions of marriage and how they compare to modern perspectives on romantic relationships.

Marriage historically served as a means for establishing economic stability and social status, securing inheritance rights, and ensuring procreation within a socially accepted framework. In contemporary times, these reasons may not hold as much weight given advancements in reproductive technologies, legal protections for unmarried couples, and shifts towards more egalitarian gender roles.

Despite this, proponents of marriage argue that it still provides benefits such as emotional support, shared responsibility for household tasks and finances, and a sense of commitment and security in long-term partnerships.

On the other hand, those who view marriage as unnecessary may prioritize personal autonomy and flexibility in their relationships above all else.

By examining both sides of this debate, we can better understand the role that marriage plays (or doesn’t play) in modern society.

The Historical Functions Of Marriage

Throughout history, the institution of marriage has served various functions in different societies.

For instance, among ancient Greeks and Romans, marriage was primarily an arrangement between families to preserve social status or gain political power.

In medieval Europe, marriages were often arranged by parents for economic reasons such as the transfer of property, land ownership, or wealth.

The evolution of marriage across cultures suggests that it has been more than just a personal commitment between two individuals based on love.

Instead, it has been shaped by cultural norms and values that reflect societal needs and expectations.

Marriage is considered a socially-sanctioned union that provides legal recognition to couples who wish to live together permanently while also regulating sexual behavior within society.

Apart from its historical significance, the cultural significance of marriage continues today.

Some cultures still view marriage as a rite of passage into adulthood or consider it necessary for procreation and continuation of family lineage.

Additionally, religious institutions have played significant roles in shaping the concept of marriage around their respective beliefs and practices.

In summary, understanding the historical functions and cultural significance of marriage demonstrates how this institution goes beyond romantic love alone.

It represents social cohesion and stability through legally recognized unions that regulate sexual behavior within communities.

The following section will examine how economic stability and social status have also influenced the practice of marriage throughout history until present times.

Economic Stability And Social Status

Marriage has played a significant role throughout history, serving various functions depending on the cultural and societal norms of each era.

In ancient times, marriage was utilized as a means to form alliances between families or tribes for political or economic gain. During medieval Europe, it became more focused on upholding social status and ensuring legitimate heirs to property and titles.

However, with modern changes in society’s attitudes towards relationships and individualism, some may question the relevance of marriage today. They argue that love should be enough without needing legal recognition through marriage.

While there is no denying the importance of love in any relationship, it is important to recognize that marriage still serves crucial purposes beyond simply expressing affection.

Firstly, marriage provides crucial economic independence for both partners by allowing them access to shared resources such as health insurance, retirement benefits, and tax breaks. Additionally, it legally protects assets acquired during the union and ensures inheritance rights for any children born into the family unit.

Furthermore, cultural traditions place great emphasis on familial ties created through marriage which can lead to an increased sense of community support.

In conclusion, while love remains vital in any partnership regardless of whether it is formalized through marriage or not, we must also acknowledge its practical purposes beyond mere romance. Economic stability and social status are two driving factors behind many couples’ decision to marry. Moreover, inheriting family legacies – financial security passed down from one generation to another – is often tied closely with marital status making it even more critical for those considering starting their own families.

Inheritance Rights And Family Legacies

Inheritance Rights and Family Legacies:

Intergenerational wealth is a topic that has garnered attention in recent times, given the rise of income inequalities across several societies. The accumulation of wealth over generations can be attributed to inheritance rights, which are usually passed down from parents to their children. In many cultures, marriage plays a significant role in determining these inheritance rights. However, with changing societal norms and legal frameworks, couples who choose not to marry may face challenges when it comes to inheriting family assets.

Family businesses are another aspect where marriage plays a crucial role. These businesses often exist for multiple generations and are seen as a legacy within the family. Most such businesses have clear succession plans laid out by the current owners, with designated heirs or successors taking control upon retirement or demise. Marriage is often considered an essential factor while deciding on suitable candidates for this responsibility since it signifies commitment and stability.

The absence of legal recognition for unmarried partners could lead to disputes regarding inheritance or ownership of family businesses if one partner passes away without any written wills or succession plans in place. This could potentially shatter the intergenerational wealth created by families and cause irreparable damage to existing relationships between members.

In conclusion, while love cannot be determined by legal contracts like marriage, its implications go beyond just emotional bonds towards tangible benefits like inheritance rights and legacies. Thus, it becomes imperative for individuals and society at large to weigh the pros and cons before making decisions concerning personal relationships that could impact future generations’ financial well-being.

Transition: Understanding how marital status affects intergenerational wealth brings us closer to comprehending why procreation and family planning play critical roles in shaping one’s financial prospects.

Procreation And Family Planning

Family planning is an essential aspect of one’s life, and it involves making informed choices about when to have children and the number of children one wants. It is a way for individuals or couples to achieve their desired family size while taking into account various factors such as health, financial stability, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

One of the primary benefits of family planning is that it can help reduce fertility rates in countries where population growth has become a concern. Fertility rates are crucial indicators of a country’s population growth and demographic changes. High fertility rates often mean rapid population growth, which can lead to several social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Family planning programs aim to provide people with information, education, counseling, and access to contraceptives that allow them to make informed decisions about having children. By reducing unintended pregnancies and promoting responsible parenthood practices, these programs can help lower fertility rates over time. Several approaches are available for family planning today, including natural methods like fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) and modern contraceptive options such as oral pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), condoms, implants, injections among others.

The choice of method depends on individual needs and medical history; however, access to family planning services remains a challenge in many areas worldwide due to barriers such as lack of resources or cultural stigmas. Adequate knowledge about family planning should be accessible for all men and women from different backgrounds globally.

Governments must invest in policies that promote sexual education at schools and work environments since sexual activity often starts during teenage years. Educating young adults helps create healthy relationships by enabling them to understand how pregnancy occurs while also providing contraceptive knowledge needed toward achieving responsible parenting goals.

Moving forward towards marriage in contemporary times…

Marriage In Contemporary Times

Contemporary times have seen changing attitudes towards the concept of marriage. Marriage, a traditional institution that has been around for centuries, is no longer viewed as an essential part of life by many individuals. Instead, love and companionship are considered to be more important than legal ties. However, this shift in thinking raises questions about the role of marriage in modern society.

Marriage vs Love remains an ongoing debate with both sides having their own merits. While some people believe that marriage provides stability and security to a relationship, others argue that true love can exist without it. This disagreement stems from different cultural backgrounds and personal experiences which shape individual beliefs about what constitutes a successful partnership.

Despite these varying perspectives, there is no denying that attitudes towards marriage have changed significantly over time. As societal norms continue to evolve, so too does our understanding of what relationships should look like. The emergence of alternative lifestyles and family structures has challenged traditional notions of marriage as being the only way to build a happy home.

To illustrate these shifts in attitude towards marriage versus love, consider the following table:

In conclusion, while there may not be one definitive answer to whether or not marriage is necessary when you can just love someone, it is clear that contemporary views on relationships have shifted away from tradition towards greater emphasis on personal fulfillment and emotional well-being. These changes reflect broader social trends toward greater freedom and autonomy in all aspects of life including reproductive technologies and alternatives to marriage – topics we will explore further next.

Reproductive Technologies And Alternatives To Marriage

The traditional purpose of marriage was to solidify a union between two people with the intent of procreation and raising children. However, modern society has shifted away from this notion as more individuals are opting for alternatives such as polyamory or remaining single without intending to have kids.

One alternative option that is becoming increasingly common is assisted reproduction. Assisted reproduction refers to medical technologies used to assist couples in conceiving a child. This technology can benefit those who struggle with infertility, same-sex couples, or even single individuals who desire biological offspring. Methods include artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and surrogacy.

Polyamory is another non-traditional approach to relationships where multiple partners engage in romantic and/or sexual relationships simultaneously. While not legally recognized like marriage, some countries have begun offering legal protections for polyamorous unions. In terms of having children within a polyamorous relationship, assisted reproduction methods may also be utilized by consenting parties.

Overall, while marriage remains a popular choice among many individuals globally, there are various options available for those seeking alternatives. With advancements in reproductive technology and shifting societal norms surrounding relationships and family structures, it will be interesting to see how these alternatives continue to develop in the future.

As society moves towards being more accepting of alternative lifestyles, legal protections for unmarried couples are also gaining attention. The next section will explore the current state of legal protections for unmarried couples and what steps can be taken to ensure equal rights regardless of marital status.

Legal Protections For Unmarried Couples

Marriage is the traditional way of formalizing a relationship, but there are legal protections available to unmarried couples as well. These protections can provide benefits that are similar to those obtained through marriage, such as access to healthcare and financial benefits.

Unmarried healthcare coverage is one area where legal protection may be necessary. Married couples often obtain health insurance together, either from an employer or through government programs like Medicare. However, unmarried partners do not have this option unless they qualify under specific criteria outlined by the insurer or program. Legal agreements between partners or domestic partnership registrations in some states can help ensure access to healthcare coverage for both individuals.

Financial benefits are another area where legal protections can benefit unmarried couples. For example, owning property jointly with a partner can help protect against loss if one partner dies or becomes incapacitated. Additionally, powers of attorney and wills can outline how assets should be distributed if something happens to one partner.

Overall, while marriage provides certain legal rights and privileges automatically, it’s important for unmarried couples to understand their options when it comes to obtaining legal protections. Whether it’s through contractual agreements or registering as domestic partners, taking steps to obtain these protections can help ensure a secure future for both individuals.

As relationships continue to evolve over time, so too do gender roles and expectations within them. The next section explores how shifting perceptions of gender influence modern relationships and what impact this has on society as a whole.

Shifting Gender Roles And Expectations

The theory of shifting gender roles and expectations in modern relationships has gained significant attention in recent years. The concept of traditional gender roles, where the man is expected to be the primary breadwinner and protector while the woman takes care of domestic duties, has been challenged as more women enter the workforce and take on leadership positions.

This shift in societal expectations has led to a re-evaluation of what it means to be masculine or feminine. Gender identity plays an important role in shaping these changing dynamics within relationships. Men who are comfortable with their masculinity may not feel threatened by sharing household responsibilities or supporting their partner’s career aspirations.

Similarly, women who embrace their femininity can still assert themselves as equal partners rather than being relegated to a subservient role. However, there are still those who cling to outdated notions of gender roles and become defensive when asked to step outside their comfort zone.

The acceptance and appreciation of diverse expressions of masculinity and femininity can lead to healthier relationships that emphasize emotional support and intimacy. Couples who share responsibilities equally often report better communication and stronger bonds. It is also essential for individuals to communicate openly about their needs and desires without feeling judged or ridiculed.

In today’s world, where individualism reigns supreme, couples must work together to create a shared vision for their relationship that reflects both parties’ values. Emotional support and intimacy are vital components of any successful partnership, regardless of gender identity or traditional roles. By recognizing that love comes in many forms beyond marriage, individuals can build meaningful connections based on mutual respect and understanding.

Relationships should inspire growth rather than stifling personal development or reinforcing outdated stereotypes. As society continues to evolve, so too will our expectations for romantic partnerships – but at its core remains the need for human connection grounded in empathy and compassion.

Emotional Support And Intimacy

Marriage is an institution that has traditionally provided emotional support and intimacy to couples.

Studies have found that emotional support and intimacy play a vital role in the longevity of a marriage.

Emotional support can include both verbal and nonverbal cues, such as physical touch, words of affirmation, and active listening.

Intimacy is also important for a healthy marriage, as it can bring a sense of connection, understanding, and security to the partners.

Emotional Support

Marriage is often seen as a symbol of love and commitment between two individuals. However, with changing times and societal norms, some people question the need for formalizing relationships through marriage when they can just simply love each other.

While love is undoubtedly an essential component of any relationship, it is important to recognize that emotional support also plays a vital role in building long-lasting bonds. Cultivating empathy towards one’s partner is crucial in providing emotional support. Empathy allows individuals to understand their partners’ feelings and perspectives better, which leads to more effective communication and problem-solving in the relationship. Without this ability to empathize with each other, couples might struggle to provide adequate emotional support during challenging situations.

Another benefit of having emotional support within a marriage is the ability to cope with stress together. The stresses of daily life can take a toll on individuals, but being able to lean on one’s partner and receive encouragement and validation can help alleviate some of these burdens. Couples who have strong emotional connections are better equipped to handle stressful situations like job loss or illness because they know they have someone who will be there for them no matter what.

Overall, while loving your partner is undoubtedly necessary for a healthy relationship, providing emotional support goes beyond just expressing affection. By cultivating empathy towards each other and learning how to cope with stress together, couples can build stronger relationships that stand the test of time.

In essence, marriage provides an opportunity for partners to commit themselves fully not only emotionally but also legally –creating a sense of responsibility that ultimately strengthens the bond between them.

Intimacy

Moving forward, another aspect that enhances emotional support in a marriage is intimacy.

Exploring vulnerability with one’s partner can lead to a deeper emotional connection through intimacy.

Intimacy promotes physical and emotional closeness between partners, which ultimately helps build trust and strengthens the bond within the relationship.

Intimacy also allows individuals to express themselves freely without fear of judgment or rejection.

This open communication creates an environment where both partners feel heard and understood – leading to better problem-solving skills when conflicts arise.

The ability to resolve issues effectively is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship.

Moreover, research has shown that couples who prioritize intimacy have higher levels of overall satisfaction in their relationships.

A study conducted by the University of Toronto found that couples who had sex once per week reported greater happiness than those who had less frequent sexual encounters.

While frequency may differ among couples, it is crucial to understand that intimacy should be prioritized as part of building a strong foundation based on mutual respect and understanding.

In conclusion, cultivating empathy towards each other along with exploring vulnerability through intimacy are vital components in strengthening emotional support in marriages.

When these aspects are given priority, they create a nurturing environment where both partners feel valued and supported – ultimately leading to long-lasting bonds built on love, trust, and respect.

Shared Responsibility For Household Tasks

In order to build a strong and lasting partnership, emotional support and intimacy are crucial components. However, there is more to a successful marriage than just these aspects of the relationship.

One important factor that often plays a significant role in marital satisfaction is sharing responsibility for household tasks. In many traditional relationships, gender roles have dictated who takes on certain responsibilities within the home. This can lead to an unequal distribution of labor and feelings of resentment or frustration between partners.

By contrast, in modern marriages, couples tend to prioritize equal distribution of household duties as a way to maintain balance and harmony in their relationship. When both partners take an active role in managing the home, it creates a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility which can help strengthen the bond between them.

Additionally, by working together to complete tasks like cleaning, cooking or grocery shopping, couples have more time for leisure activities that they can enjoy together – further strengthening their connection with each other. Ultimately, sharing responsibility for household tasks serves as another way for couples to demonstrate mutual respect towards one another.

It allows both parties to feel valued and appreciated while contributing equally to daily life at home. As such, this practice should be seen as an essential part of any healthy marriage dynamic.

To further cement financial equality within a marriage, joint finances and economic security must also be taken into account.

Joint Finances And Economic Security

Marriage vs cohabitation has long been a topic of debate. While some argue that the legal institution of marriage is outdated, others believe it provides economic and social benefits to couples. One significant advantage of marriage over cohabitation is in terms of joint finances.

Married couples are able to pool their resources and work towards common financial goals with greater ease than unmarried ones. Financial planning for couples can be an effective way to ensure long-term economic stability. Joint bank accounts, shared expenses, and coordinated investment strategies are all ways in which married couples can achieve this goal.

In contrast, cohabiting partners may find it more difficult to plan financially together as they lack the legal protections afforded by marriage. The importance of joint finances in marriages cannot be overstated when it comes to creating economic security for both partners. By combining income, assets, and liabilities, married couples are better positioned to weather financial storms such as job loss or unexpected medical bills.

Furthermore, joint savings plans set up during the course of a marriage provide an added layer of protection against future uncertainties. In light of these factors, it becomes clear why many people choose to get married rather than simply love without any formal commitment.

Joint finances play a crucial role in creating economic security for couples through careful financial planning and mutual support. This section highlights how financial considerations can influence the decision-making process around committing to a long-term partnership like marriage or cohabitation.

Commitment And Long-Term Partnership

Exploring monogamy is a complex process that requires commitment and long-term partnership.

While love may be the foundation of a relationship, marriage can provide an additional level of security and stability for couples who want to build a future together. Marriage emphasizes the importance of fidelity and trust in relationships, creating an environment where both partners feel secure in their commitment.

Navigating conflicts in long term relationships can be challenging but also rewarding when approached with patience and understanding. Couples who are committed to working through issues together will develop stronger bonds over time.

When conflicts arise, communication is key. Both partners must listen actively without judgment or defensiveness, allowing each other to express their thoughts and feelings openly.

Throughout history, humans have chosen to form partnerships based on various needs such as survival or social status. However, modern society has seen a shift towards forming unions based on emotional connection rather than practicality alone. This has led to more emphasis being placed on individual fulfillment within relationships while still upholding mutual respect and support.

In conclusion, committing to a long-term partnership like marriage involves exploring monogamy and navigating conflicts in ways that promote growth and deepening of intimacy between partners beyond just loving one another. The idea behind this kind of bond lies upon establishing strong foundations built around principles such as loyalty, honesty, financial responsibility among others which eventually lead into autonomy but also flexibility necessary for building healthy lasting relationships.

Autonomy And Flexibility In Relationships

In committed long-term partnerships, individuals often find themselves questioning the purpose and benefits of marriage. Is it really necessary to get married when you can just love someone? This question is valid as people may feel that formalizing their relationship through marriage puts unnecessary pressure on them to conform to societal expectations.

However, in a world where non-traditional partnerships are becoming increasingly common, the concept of relationship autonomy has emerged. Relationship autonomy refers to the idea that individuals have the right to choose the type of partnership they want without being influenced by external factors such as religion or tradition.

In this context, marriage does not necessarily mean commitment and love for every individual; some might prefer open relationships while others might opt for cohabitation instead of tying the knot. The point here is that everyone should be free to decide what works best for them based on their values, beliefs and personal circumstances.

Non-traditional partnerships are gaining popularity because they offer more flexibility than traditional marriages which tend to involve strict gender roles and behavioral expectations. For instance, same-sex couples who were previously denied access to legal marriage now have alternative options such as civil unions or domestic partnerships. Additionally, some individuals may prioritize their professional goals over starting a family thus choosing not to marry but still maintain committed long-term relationships with their partners.

Critics argue that marriage as an institution reinforces patriarchal systems and perpetuates social inequalities by privileging certain types of relationships over others. Furthermore, it places undue emphasis on monogamy which excludes those who practice polyamory or other forms of consensual non-monogamous relationships. These criticisms highlight the importance of recognizing diverse perspectives on partnering and understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to committing oneself to another person.

Criticisms Of Marriage As An Institution

Like any institution, marriage has its share of critics who question its relevance and value. In many ways, the debate boils down to a comparison between marriage and love.

While some argue that marriage is an outdated concept that imposes unnecessary restrictions on people’s romantic lives, others contend that it provides stability and security for couples as well as their children.

One criticism of marriage is that it can be seen as a form of ownership or possession. By exchanging vows, partners are essentially declaring exclusive rights over each other’s bodies and emotions. This can create feelings of resentment or even suffocation in individuals who want personal autonomy above all else. Additionally, the legal implications of divorce can make getting out of a bad marriage difficult and costly.

On the other hand, proponents of marriage argue that it offers several benefits beyond just emotional fulfillment. For example, married couples often enjoy financial advantages such as tax breaks and joint assets. Furthermore, studies have shown that children raised by married parents tend to fare better academically, socially, and psychologically than those from single-parent households.

In light of these criticisms versus benefits arguments about the future role of marriage continue to evolve. As society becomes more accepting of diverse lifestyles and family structures, traditional notions around what constitutes a ‘marriage’ may need to adapt accordingly.

Moreover, with technology enabling connections across borders and time zones at unprecedented levels, new forms of romantic relationships may emerge altogether which could challenge current definitions in unexpected ways.

The Future Of Marriage And Romantic Relationships

The future of love and romantic relationships is constantly evolving, as society continues to shift towards more progressive and inclusive values.

Marriage has traditionally been viewed as the ultimate expression of commitment between two individuals, but alternative partnerships are becoming increasingly popular among younger generations. This raises questions about the role of marriage in the future.

One potential outcome could be a decrease in the overall number of marriages, as people opt for different types of relationships that better suit their individual needs. However, it’s also possible that traditional marriages may evolve to become more flexible and open-minded. For example, some couples may choose to enter into non-monogamous or polyamorous relationships while still remaining legally married.

Another factor influencing the future of marriage is changing attitudes towards gender roles and sexuality. As societal norms continue to shift away from heteronormativity and traditional gender roles, there will likely be a corresponding shift in how we view marriage and romantic relationships. People may begin to reject traditional ideas about what constitutes a ‘normal’ relationship structure or dynamic.

Ultimately, only time will tell what the future holds for marriage and romantic relationships. It’s clear that alternative partnerships will continue to emerge and gain acceptance, challenging our preconceived notions about what constitutes a successful long-term relationship.

The key takeaway is that love can take many forms, beyond just the confines of traditional marriage structures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Has Marriage Been A Social Institution?

Marriage has been a social institution for thousands of years, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt.

In fact, the first recorded evidence of marriage dates back to around 2350 BCE in Sumeria.

Throughout history, the purpose and meaning of marriage have evolved depending on cultural beliefs and societal norms.

For example, during the medieval period in Europe, marriage was primarily used as a means for political alliances rather than romantic love.

However, over time, with the rise of individualism and changing attitudes towards gender roles, marriage has become more focused on companionship and personal fulfillment.

Despite these changes throughout history, one constant remains: marriage continues to be an important social institution that helps shape our understanding of family structures and relationships between individuals.

What Role Does Marriage Play In The Economy?

Marriage is not only a social and cultural institution, but it also plays a significant role in the economy.

Marriage affects spending patterns as married couples tend to spend more on household expenses compared to single individuals.

Moreover, divorce rates have an impact on the economy.

Divorce can lead to financial instability for both parties involved, affecting their ability to contribute positively to the economy through consumer spending or investment.

The cost of legal fees, household division, and child support payments can be substantial and often result in decreased economic productivity from those affected by divorce.

Therefore, marriage has implications that extend beyond romantic love and personal fulfillment and are intertwined with larger societal concerns such as economic stability.

How Does Marriage Affect Inheritance Rights?

Marriage holds legal implications that affect inheritance rights.

In many countries, the law distributes a deceased person’s estate according to their marital status at death.

If an individual dies without leaving behind a will, their assets are automatically passed on to their spouse in some cases.

Societal expectations also play a role in inheritance laws and can vary based on cultural norms and religious beliefs.

For example, some cultures prioritize male heirs over female heirs or require certain rituals to be performed before property can be transferred.

These legal and societal factors demonstrate how marriage impacts an individual’s ability to pass on wealth and assets after they die.

What Are Some Alternatives To Marriage For Family Planning?

Family planning can be achieved through various alternatives to marriage such as adoption options and co-parenting arrangements.

While these may not provide the legal benefits of marriage, they offer opportunities for individuals or couples who prefer not to get married but still desire a family.

Adoption provides an avenue for those seeking to expand their family while giving a child in need a home.

Co-parenting arrangements allow two or more adults to raise a child together without being romantically involved.

These alternative approaches to family planning have gained popularity among people who prioritize love and companionship over traditional marriage.

How Do Shifting Gender Roles Impact Marriage Expectations?

Changing attitudes towards gender roles have significantly impacted societal norms regarding marriage expectations.

Historically, men were expected to be the breadwinners while women were responsible for domestic duties and child-rearing.

However, with more women entering the workforce and challenging traditional gender roles, there has been a shift in these expectations.

This has resulted in a redefinition of what it means to be married, as couples are now exploring new ways to divide household responsibilities and create equal partnerships.

As such, changing gender roles have had a significant impact on marital dynamics and continue to shape societal attitudes towards marriage.

Conclusion

Marriage has been a social institution for thousands of years, playing a crucial role in the economy and inheritance rights.

However, alternative family planning options have emerged such as cohabitation and single parenthood.

Shifting gender roles have also impacted marriage expectations with more emphasis on equality and shared responsibilities.

Despite these changes, marriage remains an important commitment for many individuals who value its symbolic significance and legal protections.

It is often compared to a ballroom dance where both partners must work together to create harmony and balance.

Love may be at the heart of any successful relationship, but marriage provides structure and stability to support that love over time.

Ultimately, whether one chooses to marry or not depends on their individual values and beliefs about what constitutes a fulfilling life partnership.