Define Polygamy.

Polygamy is a marital arrangement where an individual is married to more than one spouse simultaneously. This practice allows a person to have multiple spouses concurrently, and it exists in various forms, the most common being polygyny and polyandry.

1. Polygyny: This form of polygamy involves a man having multiple wives simultaneously. In polygynous societies, a man may marry more than one woman, and these marriages can coexist concurrently.

2. Polyandry: In contrast, polyandry is a form of polygamy where a woman has multiple husbands simultaneously. While less common than polygyny, polyandrous arrangements have been observed in certain societies.

Polygamous practices can have cultural, religious, or historical roots and are prevalent in various parts of the world. The acceptance and prevalence of polygamy vary widely across different cultures and legal systems. In many societies, it is regulated or prohibited, while in others, it may be culturally accepted or legally recognized under certain conditions.

Polygamous relationships can pose challenges related to legal recognition, social dynamics, and individual rights. Views on polygamy are diverse, with debates often centered around issues of gender equality, consent, and the impact on family structures.