Why do people get married?

Question:

Why do people get married?

Is it ultimately a fear of lonliness?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I'll provide an answer that isn't loaded with estrogen-laden sentimentalism.

Modern marriage is really about keeping the peace. You commit yourself to another because the other person has character attributes that you find compatible ( yet some people even screw that up). The idea here is that you can happily spend time together without throwing steak knives 5 years after the nuptials.

The commitment also means that you don't go screwing around on each other, causing all kinds of emotional drama. No one wants that crap, especially when kids are in the mix. And yes- having children is a major asset to your life. Having a stable family for kids to be raised in is a great thing for you and the kids.

Marriage gets you peace of mind. Yeah, the sentimental crap is good too but you don't NEED a marriage to stay commit ed. You do need a marriage to keep financial leverage on yourself, your spouse and your family. It keeps the peace, it keeps the security (both legal and ethical).