How various sociologists defined marriage ?

1. Emile Durkheim: Functionalism and Social Solidarity

Emile Durkheim, a prominent figure in sociology, viewed marriage through the lens of functionalism. According to Durkheim, marriage serves a crucial function in society by promoting social solidarity and stability. In his seminal work, "The Elementary Forms of Religious Life," Durkheim argued that marriage provides a social institution that regulates individuals' behavior, strengthens social bonds, and contributes to the overall cohesion of the community. Durkheim emphasized the role of marriage in establishing a sense of belonging and shared values, essential for the smooth functioning of society.

2. Talcott Parsons: Structural Functionalism and Family as a Social Institution

Building upon Durkheim's ideas, Talcott Parsons expanded the understanding of marriage within the framework of structural functionalism. Parsons saw the family, with marriage as its cornerstone, as a fundamental social institution that performs various essential functions for society. In his functionalist perspective, marriage serves as a mechanism for fulfilling specific social roles, such as providing emotional support, socializing children, and maintaining stability in the larger social structure. For Parsons, the marital relationship plays a pivotal role in maintaining order and equilibrium within society.

3. Bronislaw Malinowski: Functionalism and Psychological Satisfaction

Bronislaw Malinowski, a pioneer in the field of cultural anthropology, contributed to the sociological understanding of marriage by emphasizing its functional aspects. Malinowski proposed that marriage serves both biological and psychological needs. He argued that marriage provides a framework for satisfying the biological need for reproduction and the psychological need for emotional support and companionship. Malinowski's functionalist approach highlighted the adaptive functions of marriage in addressing human needs, contributing to individual well-being and societal stability.

4. George Murdock: Cross-Cultural Perspective and Universality of Marriage

George Murdock, known for his cross-cultural studies, explored the universality of marriage across different societies. Murdock conducted a comprehensive analysis of 250 societies and concluded that while specific marriage practices vary, the institution of marriage is a universal feature of human societies. He identified four functions of marriage: sexual regulation, reproduction, socialization, and economic cooperation. Murdock's work contributed to the understanding that, despite cultural diversity, marriage fulfills common functions essential for the functioning and continuity of societies.

5. Symbolic Interactionism: Erving Goffman and Howard Becker

Symbolic interactionism offers a different perspective on marriage by focusing on the micro-level interactions between individuals. Erving Goffman and Howard Becker, both symbolic interactionists, examined how individuals construct meaning within the context of marriage. Goffman, in his dramaturgical approach, likened marriage to a theatrical performance where individuals engage in impression management to present a desirable image to others. Becker, on the other hand, explored the labeling and negotiation processes within marital relationships, emphasizing how individuals define and redefine the meaning of marriage through ongoing interactions.

6. Feminist Perspectives: Simone de Beauvoir and Betty Friedan

Feminist scholars have critically examined traditional notions of marriage, highlighting power dynamics, gender roles, and societal expectations. Simone de Beauvoir, in "The Second Sex," critiqued the institution of marriage as perpetuating women's subordination. Betty Friedan, in "The Feminine Mystique," criticized the restrictive roles imposed on women within marriage and advocated for women's autonomy and fulfillment outside traditional domestic spheres. Feminist perspectives on marriage underscore the importance of challenging and transforming societal norms that contribute to gender inequalities within marital relationships.

Conclusion

In conclusion, various sociologists have defined marriage through diverse theoretical lenses, including functionalism, symbolic interactionism, cross-cultural analysis, and feminist perspectives. Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons emphasized the functional roles of marriage in promoting social solidarity and maintaining societal order. Bronislaw Malinowski highlighted the psychological and adaptive functions of marriage, while George Murdock explored the universality of marriage across cultures. Symbolic interactionists like Erving Goffman and Howard Becker focused on micro-level interactions within marital relationships, while feminist scholars like Simone de Beauvoir and Betty Friedan critiqued traditional gender roles and power dynamics. The multifaceted nature of these perspectives enriches our understanding of marriage as a complex social institution with varied functions and meanings.