1. Marriage: Universal Social Institution
Foundation of Family and Kinship
DefinitionMarriage: A socially acknowledged and approved sexual union between two adult individuals, establishing a relatively enduring bond with rights and obligations toward each other and offspring
Why Marriage is Important:
- Regulates sexual relations
- Ensures procreation and socialisation of children
- Provides social legitimacy to children (inheritance, succession)
- Forms the basis of family
- Ensures biological replacement and continuity of society
Historical Shifts in Emphasis:
- Traditional: Social obligation, economic arrangement, procreation
- Modern: Companionship, emotional satisfaction, psychological support
Contemporary Trends:
- Declining marriage rates in many societies
- Rising age at marriage
- Increasing acceptance of live-in relationships
- Legal recognition of same-sex marriages
- Individual choice over family arrangement
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In these notes
- Marriage: Universal Social Institution
- Sociological Definitions
- Key Features of Marriage
- Monogamy: One Man, One Woman
- Polygamy: Multiple Spouses
- Rules of Mate Selection
- Marriage Within and Outside the Group
- Why Marriage Exists
- Marriage in the 21st Century
- Q: Does the Institution of Marriage Continue to Be Sacred in Indian Society? Comment.
- Q: Discuss the Consequences of Across Region Marriage on Kinship System in Modern Indian Society.
- Quick Revision Summary
- How to Write Answers on Marriage
- Expected Questions for OPSC/UPSC
- Complete Summary