Is marriage an endangered institution?

Most people are getting married late these days. The days of marriage at 18 for girls and 22 for men is not commonplace any longer. In fact, the latter is often viewed as an indication of personal poverty and national underdevelopment.

“Marriage is an institution. Who wants to be in an institution?” That was a quotation from a morning network TV show I saw in the late 1980’s featuring the singer Cher, who had been asked about her life after Sonny.

A new study has adduced some reasons for this trend in attitude and implementation toward the marital status.

Conducted in Britain by her Office of National Statistics, the study shows a 65% rise in cohabitation but a 4% drop in matrimony.

And, “… the research found single parents increased by 8% to 2.6 million, with single mothers tending to be younger than their male counterparts…”

This trend is attributed to the simple fact that women need men less these days and are willing to postpone or stay off relationships much longer than before. In fact, “… the research found fewer women aged between 25 and 29 were forming any union, either marriage or cohabitation, before the age of 25.”

The report roots for marriage for its many benefits, including a healthier life for everyone in such an environment and greater and more stable intelligence of the children of consummated relationships.

The conclusion? Not very hopeful at all for the hallowed institution of marriage:

“The study, which includes forecasts from Government actuaries, predicted a 250 per cent increase by 2031 among people aged 45-64 who cohabit. (ANI)”