3 Marriage has become less important in modern societies." a Explain this view. b Using sociological material, give one argument against this view.

**a) Explaining the view that marriage has become less important in modern societies:**Several factors contribute to the perception that marriage has diminished in importance in contemporary societies:* **Changing social norms:** Traditional views of marriage as the sole acceptable path to adulthood and family formation have weakened. Cohabitation, single parenthood, and chosen singlehood are increasingly accepted and normalized. Marriage is no longer seen as a prerequisite for social acceptance or respectability.* **Economic independence of women:** Women's increased access to education and employment has reduced their economic dependence on men. Marriage is less of a financial necessity for survival and security, allowing women greater autonomy in their relationship choices.* **Secularization:** The decline in religious influence in many societies has lessened the emphasis on marriage as a sacred institution. Civil partnerships and other legal arrangements offer similar rights and protections without the religious connotations.* **Focus on individual fulfillment:** Modern societies often prioritize individual happiness and self-realization. If marriage is perceived as hindering personal growth or freedom, individuals may choose alternative paths.* **Rising divorce rates:** High divorce rates can lead to skepticism about the durability and value of marriage. The perceived risk of marital failure may deter some from entering into marriage in the first place.* **Emphasis on personal choice and freedom:** Individuals have more choices regarding relationships and family structures than in the past. Marriage is seen as one option among many, rather than a social obligation.**b) Sociological argument against the view that marriage has become less important:**While alternative relationship forms have gained prominence, marriage remains a significant social institution. One argument against the decline of marriage is its continued association with **enhanced well-being and social benefits**:* **Studies consistently show that married individuals, on average, report higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction, and mental and physical health compared to unmarried individuals.** This may be attributed to factors such as increased social support, economic stability, and shared responsibilities within marriage. Furthermore, children raised in married-parent families tend to experience better outcomes in terms of education, health, and overall well-being compared to children raised in other family structures, although this is a complex issue with many contributing factors. These findings suggest that marriage continues to offer significant benefits for individuals and society, indicating its enduring importance.It's important to note that correlation does not equal causation. While studies show associations between marriage and positive outcomes, it's difficult to isolate the specific impact of marriage itself. Other factors, such as selection effects (people who are already happier and healthier may be more likely to marry), could contribute to these observed differences. However, the consistent association between marriage and well-being across numerous studies suggests that marriage continues to hold a significant place in modern society.