An article discussing the pros and cons of monogamy for married adults.
Though there are some scientists who believe that monogamy is an unhealthy, unnatural state of the human mind, many believe the opposite to be true. Sexual researchers, Will Blythe and Dr. Patricia Love both believe that the key to regaining and reaffirming a solid, loving relationship is rooted in the basis of monogamy.
Is this true? This question continues to course through our society, with strong arguments on both sides of this rather "˜passionate' issue. First, let's define monogamy.
Webster's definition:
Main Entry: mo·nog·a·my
Pronunciation: -mE
Function: noun
Etymology: French monogamie, from Late Latin monogamia, from Greek, from monogamos monogamous, from mon- + gamos marriage, from gamein to marry
Date: 1612
1 archaic : the practice of marrying only once during a lifetime
2 : the state or custom of being married to one person at a time
3 : the condition or practice of having a single mate during a period of time - mo·nog·a·mous /m&-'nä-g&-m&s/ also mono·gam·ic /"mä-n&-'ga-mik/ adjective
- mo·nog·a·mous·ly adverb
So, in other words, you marry one person, you have sex with one person, for all of the remaining days of your life.
Impossible? No. Easy? No. Necessary? Well, that one is not so easy to answer.
The formula for any successful relationship is trust. Therefore, whether or not monogamy is necessary is something that must be decided before the relationship begins, and the decision must be honored, or you have violated your partner's trust.
Most people assume that issues relating to "˜affairs', "˜cheating', "˜extramarital affairs', etc, are based solely on sexual intercourse. This is not true. The real issue at stake is the violation of trust.
So, what does that mean for you, in your current relationship? That depends. First of all, do you want to have more than one sexual partner? Is this something you have already discussed with your current significant other? Do you trust your partner enough to share your thoughts with them? The best course of action, naturally, is to have these decisions cleared up before the relationship begins. However, if you are in a long term relationship, and your feelings have changed, that's a deeper, more revolving situation. That problem will depend on the outlook of both partners and the way the matter is handled. No one should be forced to do something they do not want to do. Including sharing a partner.
