Freakonomics Radio 511. Why Did You Marry That Person?
22 snips
Jul 21, 2022 
Mark Gogné, an economist focused on marriage markets, and Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, dive into the intriguing concept of assortative mating. They discuss how economic and social factors influence who we marry, drawing evidence from popular culture like 'Bridgerton' and modern dating apps like Tinder. The conversation highlights the effects of these trends on wealth inequality and social dynamics, illuminating how our romantic choices mirror historical practices and current societal structures. Love may be in the air, but economics plays a powerful role!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Marriage Trends
- The U.S. marriage rate has declined, but the divorce rate has also fallen to a 50-year low.
- Later marriages correlate with increased marital stability.
Marriage Benefits
- Marriage correlates with positive life outcomes, including health, wealth, and children's well-being.
- Causality is complex; those already thriving might find partners more easily.
Marriage Market
- Economists view marriage as a market where singles search for partners within a limited pool.
- Unlike typical markets, prices (dowries) aren't always present, especially in high-income countries.
