Arranged marriages have been a long-standing tradition in
many cultures, with parents taking the lead in selecting suitable life
partners for their children. However, as societies evolve, so do the
attitudes of young people towards arranged marriages. The question arises:
should marriages be arranged by parents or left to the choice of the young
people involved? Let's examine the issue from the perspectives of parents,
young couples, and practicality.
From a parent's point of view, the desire to see their children married and
settled in life is natural. They want to ensure that their offspring marry a
healthy person who will be a good life partner and potential parent for
their grandchildren. Additionally, parents consider the reputation of the
potential spouse and their standing in society, while also factoring in
financial stability. In some cases, these considerations can lead to the
arrangement of marriages for financial gain, which may result in the young
couple being unhappy and the marriage ending in disaster.
On the other hand, young couples these days value their freedom to choose
their own life partners. They are often attracted to the personal qualities
of their prospective partner and want to make their own decision. However,
because they lack experience, their choice may not always be the best one,
leading to misunderstandings and divorces. In Western societies, the idea of
romantic love has resulted in more illicit connections and out-of-wedlock
children. Thus, it may be beneficial for young couples to seek the advice
and blessings of their parents before making a final decision.
There is also the matter of practicality. Traditional arranged marriages may
no longer be the most suitable option in modern societies. With advances in
communication technology, young people have a broader range of choices for
potential partners. They can meet and interact with people from diverse
backgrounds, increasing the likelihood of finding a compatible partner.
Additionally, the emphasis on personal freedom and individual rights may
make arranged marriages unattractive to some.
In conclusion, there are valid arguments on both sides of the arranged
marriage debate. Parents want to ensure their children's well-being and see
them settled in life, while young couples value their freedom and the
opportunity to make their own decisions. Practical considerations must also
be taken into account. It may be useful for young couples to seek advice
from their parents before making a decision, and for parents to consider the
changing attitudes of society. Ultimately, the decision should be based on
mutual respect and consideration between all parties involved, leading to a
happy and successful marriage. |