Brad Wilcox, Professor of Sociology, discusses the benefits of marriage for individuals and society. Topics include the impact of marriage on stability and well-being, the importance of promoting marriage culturally, and the happiness gap between liberals and conservatives in the US.
Embracing virtues in religious or conservative milieus leads to successful marriages and marital stability.
Promoting marriage as the preferred foundation for stable families faces societal challenges.
Marriage influences social mobility and children's outcomes, contributing to personal and societal well-being.
Deep dives
The Importance of Traditional Values in Marriage
Individuals raised or selecting into religious or conservative milieus are more likely to embrace virtues that lead to successful marriages, boosting both marital happiness and stability. Liberals are urged to rethink the value they place on marriage and consider their life course approach.
The Influence of Elite Attitudes on Marriage
Elite individuals often privately value marriage while publicly affirming diverse family structures. This inconsistency highlights societal challenges in promoting marriage as the preferred foundation for stable families.
Impact of Marriage and Family Structure on Community Well-being
Strong families and marriage are essential for community well-being, influencing factors like social mobility and children's outcomes. Research shows that marital stability correlates positively with societal benefits.
Role of Marriage in Personal and Community Flourishing
Marriage provides a framework for long-term commitment, mutual support, and stable family life. By prioritizing family values, individuals can contribute to personal and societal flourishing.
Encouraging Intentionality in Dating and Marriage Choices
Intentionality in socializing and dating during young adulthood increases the likelihood of finding a suitable life partner and a fulfilling marriage, enhancing personal well-being and family stability.
Yascha Mounk and Brad Wilcox discuss how marriage contributes to better outcomes for both children and adults.
Brad Wilcox is Professor of Sociology and Director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia and a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Wilcox is the author of Get Married.
In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and Brad Wilcox discuss whether more people getting married really would improve their lives; why we might need a political and cultural environment more conducive to marriage; and what explains the “happiness gap” between liberals and conservatives in the US.