The story of the decline of marriage in recent years is clearly visible. Divorce has become a common topic, and many adults in the UK are avoiding marriage for the first time. However, the main question is why some, including liberals, secular individuals, and even those who have previously been divorced, continue to uphold this old tradition?
Modern Challenges and Reasons for Marriage
In research conducted for writing a book about marriage, I asked couples what led them to this important decision. Interestingly, many of them resorted to speculation instead of clear answers: security? children? taxes? stability? peer pressure? love? Those who had previously criticized this institution often referred to justifications that rationalized their choice to enter this new world.
Marriage seems to be a topic that is both boring and provocative at the same time. While many appear to be aware of this subject, they have not actually thought deeply about it, and many have stumbled into their married lives by chance. Marriage, ultimately, is an extraordinary proposition: a commitment you make to someone in front of witnesses, promising to be with them for the rest of your life.
Marriage in a Secular World
In a society that is predominantly secular, marriage is still somewhat intertwined with religious values. Until the late twentieth century, marriage in the UK was primarily conducted as a sacred covenant that required God's blessing. However, in 1992, civil ceremonies surpassed religious ones. Today, six out of ten people aged 16 to 34 in the UK have no religion. Nevertheless, it seems that religious values have still permeated this institution.
Marriage is somewhat of a space where modern secular culture has gradually absorbed many desires and values associated with religion. For example, vows become "covenants," and "faith" turns into "loyalty." In the face of a future filled with challenges, it is natural for people to cling to the institution of marriage, which promises love and long-term commitment.
