Team Monogamy!

Till death parts us. Most recognize these words as the bonding between man and woman in matrimony, a sacrament that has come under fire over the last few decades. Not only has discussion of same-sex marriage been a hot topic, but the constantly increasing divorce rate in America has been at the forefront of marriage talks. Some believe that marriage is unnecessary; that receiving a paper does not signify undying, devoted love or that until all are allowed to join in union they simply will not partake. Robert Wright, author of Our Cheating Hearts, claims that although humans are thought to be one of the most monogamous creatures on earth it is simple not the truth (279). Although the divorce rate is higher than ever, and some scientific research is showing the human struggle with staying with one mate, the idea of heterosexual, monogamous marriage should stay in full effect.

“Human beings were called a ‘pair-bonding’ species (Wright, 279).” This means that humans, for the most part, tend to find one another in the hopes of a happy union as well as the opportunity to create their own family together. In the past divorce or separation was considered disgraceful and was deeply frowned upon by society; but in the modern world it seems to be acceptable for men and women to marry a few times, or at least until they “get it right.” Research shows that people are engineered to fall in love; an emotion which seems to be one of the most important when couples decided to whether or not to take their relationship to the next level or not (Wright, 280). Marriage is the step that solidifies one person’s commitment to another, it never states the road will always be easy or troubles will not find them, but rather calls on a couple to figure out how to stay together during those challenges as well as the happy times. Men and women now more than ever need to rise above the high divorce rate and beat the odds in order to make it to that coveted “golden anniversary.”

Even though adultery and small emotional relationships on the side have been more prevalent in the recent times, it does not make the behavior appropriate. Wright stated in his article, “It is natural for both men and women-at some times, under some circumstances- to commit adultery or to sour on a mate, to suddenly find a spouse unattractive, irritating, wholly unreasonable (280).” While this statement is circumstantially true and supported by evolutionary psychology, it does not mean an affair or stepping out on a partner is acceptable. Obviously in every marriage or relationship there have been times when arguments have ensued or a re-evaluation of what works and what does not in the union, but the lust felt for the cute guy in the office may not lead to action. Self control and remembering the promises made to one another can really make a difference in a marriage. Monogamy has more challenges and disbelievers than ever in the modern world, but it does not mean that love and a man and woman’s true devotion to one another cannot prevail.