Jessica Bennett On Marriage

The traditional idea of marriage consists of two individuals coming together in a union that is considered lifelong and until death. As of late, however, there appears to be somewhat of an increase in marriages being terminated early, as well as marriages that were never had the “’til death do us part” to begin with. As divorce rates rise, one lobby of this debate are calling into question whether a traditional two-party marriage is truly the way to go or not; stating that the biological state of mankind is to have multiple sexual partners. On the opposing side, the argument is staying true to traditions, claiming that truly monogamous relationships are not only possible, but are very beneficial for the wellbeing of those involved in them.

She outlines the lives of a Seattle polyamorist group, and the details of the interpersonal relationships between them. She argues that despite what people may believe at first sight, the group is very happy with their primary partners dating and having deep relationships with other people. She describes the polyamorists method of coping with jealousy as compersion, or the idea that one should be happy for their significant other having their needs met, even if those needs are not being met by them. Ms. Bennett is quite supportive and adamant about the fact that polyamory is more stable than monogamy. The polyamorist is of the idea set that human beings are liable to become bored with monogamy, and that they require variety to remain

Ms. Gourdeau is of the mindset that monogamy is the best way to go about navigating the intricacies of romantic relationships. She repeatedly cites the work of anthropologist Helen Fisher, as well as Professor Anderson of the University of Winchester, and offers rebuttals to Anderson’s and Fisher’s ideas. Gourdeau states that while the research that conducted by Anderson exists, it is simply not valid. She states that Anderson intentionally interviewed a very small sample size of young, unmarried men in his studies, which would have biased his study towards polyamory quite a bit. She also brings to light the fact that many of the young men involved in Anderson’s study stated they would like to have sex with multiple partners, but would not feel comfortable allowing their partners to be polyamorous – and interesting double standard. Gourdeau also states that the very idea that people are reduced to their basic sexual urges is downright insulting. She finishes by stating that most people would feel reinforced by monogamy, and that that is the style of relationship that would be beneficial for