I agree with Dr. Somerville's views that the primary purpose of marriage is to protect vulnerable children and to ensure the continuance of humanity. It's common sense to me-- and clear why traditionally the universal view of marriage has been the union of a male and female -- and why same sex marriages by and large have never been accepted.
Historically the continuance of humanity depended on procreation through sex. There was no artificial insemination, so the value of hetro sexual marriage was huge. In addition males and females had more traditional roles, and most often the male was responsible for making sure his family was clothed and fed. Women tended to the household an nurtured their young. Each role was important, yet different.
Historically the continuance of humanity depended on procreation through sex. There was no artificial insemination, so the value of hetro sexual marriage was huge. In addition males and females had more traditional roles, and most often the male was responsible for making sure his family was clothed and fed. Women tended to the household an nurtured their young. Each role was important, yet different.