Functions of marriage | Anthropology Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Functions of Marriage

Marriage is a sanction for two people to spend their lives together and it has many implications and functions related to it. Some of the functions are mentioned herein.

Biological Function

• The most important function of a marriage is to beget children. The society gives recognition to children born out of wedlock and the children thus born are ascribed status as per the norms of the society. A society basically channelizes the sexual rights through the institution of marriage and it helps in mating within the rules and regulations as ascribed by a society. This helps in maintaining the norms of incest taboo also.

Economic Functions

• In order to do away with the discrimination of labour by sex, marriage comes in as a protective measure wherein the men share their produce with the wives. Marriage leads to an economic co-operation between men and women ensuring the survival of every individual in a society.

Social Function

• Marriage is the way to forming a family. A marriage sanctions the status of both husband and wife in a society and thus, they are also collectively accepted by society as husband and wife. In many societies there are norms where only a married person can take part in the rituals. For example in the Hindu society there is a ritual during wedding in which the bride is blessed with oil. In this ceremony at least seven married women hold a ring with the tip of their right hand forefinger on the brides head. Oil then is poured on this ring by the married women. It is believed that the oil which pours down from the head to below takes away all the evil and brings in good luck to the would be husband and wife. Normally, widows and divorcees do not take part in such rituals. Marriage helps in forming new kinsmen and widening his network.

Conclusion

Marriage serves several essential functions in society, including biological, economic, and social aspects. It provides a legitimate framework for procreation, ensures economic cooperation between partners, and strengthens social bonds through the formation of family units and participation in cultural rituals. Overall, marriage plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Functions of marriage

What is the primary biological function of marriage?

The primary biological function of marriage is to beget children. Society recognizes children born out of wedlock, providing them with status according to societal norms.

How does marriage serve an economic function?

Marriage leads to economic cooperation between men and women, ensuring the survival of every individual in society. This cooperation helps to eliminate discrimination of labor by sex, as both partners share their resources and contribute to the household.

How does marriage fulfill a social function?

Marriage is a way to form a family and provides a sanctioned status for both husband and wife in society. It allows them to participate in certain rituals and ceremonies, and helps in forming new connections and widening their social network.