Marriage Flashcards
EXPLAIN why marriage sometimes raises moral issues (6)
-In an arranged marriage the couple may not have had the chance to properly get to know each other, this may raise issues within the relationship if they’re not compatible
-The marriage may have been forced, e.g. the couple have had no choice in their partner or the female may still be very young
-Couples may feel pressured into marriage. This could be due to religious pressure, parental expectations or societal pressure
-There are issues when marriage ends unhappily for the couple where children are involved and they may feel pain or suffering as a result
-Issues like domestic violence may occur but the partner may feel it’s harder to leave the situation as they are already married
-Couples may not feel happy and fulfilled in their relationship which can then lead to a lack of fidelity and result in cheating which will ultimately cause more unhappiness
DESCRIBE some reasons why people get married (4)
-Want to start a family and have children
-They want to show love and commitment to each other and the church
-To provide a secure and loving environment for bringing up children
-To ensure friendship and companionship though life
Choose a religious view point you have studied
DESCRIBE what it says about marriage (4)
Christianity teaches us that marriage is a scared covenant between a man and a woman
Christian teachings emphasise the importance of mutual love and respect, faithfulness and the sharing of responsibilities in a marriage
Christian marriage is meant to reflect the love between Christ and the church and is considered a life long commitment
In the Catholic church teachings it is stated that sacramental marriage is the binding until the death of one’s partner
Choose a non religious view point you have studied
EXPLAIN what it says about divorce (4)
Utilitarians would likely consider the impact of divorce on the individuals involved as well as any children. If divorce results in a reduction of suffering or an increase in happiness for all parties then a utilitarian would consider it a valid option
Utilitarians may also consider the impact of divorce on society as a whole e.g. potential economic or social costs of divorce. If it can help create a more just and equitable society then a utilitarian would consider divorce a valid option
Ultimately utilitarians would prioritise the overall happiness and well being of the greatest number of people when considering divorce
What does Christianity teach about marriage?
-Marriage is a gift from God which allows couples to live in comfort and companionship
-Christian marriage is for life and is permanent and exclusive
-Sacramental marriage is a sign for the Christian church as Gods love is reflected in the love of husband and wife
What is traditional marriage?
-When a man and woman make a legal commitment to eachother
-They vow to love one another in sickness and health, nube faithful to each other until death parts them
-This can be done in a place of worship or officiated by a registrar e.g. in a castle
-Some see this as the right context for starting a family
What is arranged marriage?
-When family e.g. parents help arrange the wedding so a suitable partner is found
-It’s more traditional in both Hindu and Muslim cultures
-Couples may not know each other prior to marriage but often meet before hand and agree to marriage
-Arranged marriages have declined in prosperous countries with social mobility and increasing individualism however they are still seen in Europe and North America is royal families or minority religious groups
