Debate:Would allowing polygynous marriage cause civil unrest and economic collapse?

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People argue, "If polygynous marriage is allowed, then almost all women will flock to a handful of wealthy, high-status, socially dominant, or otherwise highly desirable men, leaving lots of single men who will become disgruntled and lazy, because they've given up hope of attracting a woman. At best, they'll sit in their mom's basement smoking a bong and playing video games rather than pursuing a high-paying job; at worst, they'll engage in violent crime and rebellion against society because they have nothing to lose."

Does a typical middle class guy WANT to be with a woman who's only interested in him because more desirable guys like Bill Gates and Brad Pitt were already taken? Or would he rather be with a woman who chose him because the unique characteristics he brings to the table (like his looks, personality, interests, etc.) are, to her, the best in the world? Suppose polygyny is allowed, and half the female population marries the top 1% of men, forming large harems. Might not the ordinary middle class guys left behind say, "Good riddance; if they don't want me, then I don't want them either. I'll wait till I find my true love and soulmate, if she's out there"?

Alternatively, might men look at it as a competition that they're determined to win rather than giving up, even if the odds are against them? Men all the time take risks in an effort to gain wealth, power, fame, etc. Sometimes the kind of risk they take involves criminal behavior like robbing banks, but other times it's entrepreneurial. I think that if working a 9-5 job isn't enough to make enough money to attract a woman, but starting a successful business could lead to getting a harem of women, we'll probably see a lot more guys taking an interest in entrepreneurialism. L's Ideology (talk) 18:12, 6 October 2016 (UTC)

I think polygamous marriage should be allowed because it's no matter of the government, and you shouldn't be penalized for who you choose to be with. Plus, the sexual possibilities are amazing. Also, as a man, I can oppress even more women. PBfreespace (talk) 21:14, 6 October 2016 (UTC)

But the economy! And civilization! The argument goes that if the gold diggers are allowed to have orgies with sugar daddies without being socially stigmatized, they won't be able to give the working stiff in the suburban neighborhood a reason to keep getting up at five in the morning, fighting traffic, busting his hump all day, and paying his taxes. L's Ideology (talk) 23:59, 6 October 2016 (UTC)

The simple answer to the question posed is: "No".--Bob^{"Life is short and (insert adjective)"} 19:58, 7 October 2016 (UTC)

If all partners are consenting adults...

...there is no FSM-damned problem to legalize a marriage.--The (((Kigel))) (talk) (mail) 22:40, 8 October 2016 (UTC) 22:40, 8 October 2016 (UTC)

See also

• Debate:Polygamy