Based Camp | Simone & Malcolm Collins

Should We Revive Dowries and Bride Prices? (Why Selling Your Kids Increased Their Value)

5 snips
Aug 15, 2025
This discussion dives into the cultural significance of dowries and bride prices, questioning their relevance today. The hosts reveal intriguing historical connections, like how dowries influenced the story of Santa Claus. They explore the economic implications of these practices in various societies, particularly in China and India, highlighting modern trends like 'marriage bounties.' Listeners are invited to consider how these traditions impact social structures and family dynamics, offering a thought-provoking perspective on age-old customs.
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INSIGHT

Payments Increase Marriage Commitment

  • Dowries and bride prices raise switching costs and legitimize marriage, increasing commitment and reducing divorce.
  • They also involve families, creating social pressure that discourages infidelity and instability.
INSIGHT

Why Cultures Choose Bride Price Or Dowry

  • Bride prices are more common in polygamous, labor-intensive societies where women's work is essential.
  • Dowries appear in monogamous, wealth-scarce-women contexts and relate to capital over labor.
ANECDOTE

Modern Marriage Bounties In Tech Circles

  • Simone describes modern 'marriage bounties' in Silicon Valley and EA circles offering $10k–$100k for introductions.
  • She cites an example where Ayla publicly offered $100,000 for an introduction that leads to marriage.
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