Against Marriage

Against Marriage presents feminist philosopher Mari Mikkola's argument for the abolition of state-recognized marriage. The book examines marriage as both a legal institution and social practice through a critical philosophical lens. Mikkola evaluates key historical and contemporary defenses of marriage while systematically challenging common assumptions about its necessity and benefits. She analyzes marriage's role in perpetuating gender hierarchies and heteronormativity, drawing on feminist theory and political philosophy. The work combines rigorous academic analysis with attention to real-world policy implications and proposed alternatives to marriage. Mikkola explores how society might recognize and regulate intimate relationships without the institution of marriage. This academic text contributes to ongoing debates about gender equality, state power, and the future of intimate relationships in modern society. Its central thesis raises fundamental questions about how social institutions shape human relationships and autonomy.

Readers found this book presents detailed philosophical arguments against marriage as a legal institution, while distinguishing between marriage and committed relationships. Readers appreciated: - Clear distinctions between critiquing marriage vs relationships - Academic rigor and thoroughness of arguments - Incorporation of feminist and LGBTQ+ perspectives - Discussion of alternatives to legal marriage Common criticisms: - Dense academic writing style that can be hard to follow - Some readers wanted more concrete policy proposals - Limited discussion of marriage's religious/cultural aspects Ratings/Reviews: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (21 ratings) Amazon: 4.0/5 (8 ratings) From reviews: "Makes compelling points about how marriage perpetuates gender inequality, though the philosophy jargon is heavy" - Goodreads reviewer "Strong academic analysis but could have explored more practical alternatives to marriage as an institution" - Amazon reviewer "Important contribution to feminist philosophy but not an accessible read for general audience" - Philosophy blog review

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🔹 Mari Mikkola, a professor at the University of Amsterdam, developed her arguments against marriage while maintaining her own marriage, demonstrating the complexity and personal nature of the philosophical debate. 💭 The book challenges both religious and secular defenses of marriage, arguing that neither adequately justifies the institution in contemporary society. 📚 Rather than advocating for the complete abolition of marriage, Mikkola proposes a "marriage-free state" where relationships would be regulated through a system of civil unions available to all. 🤝 The work builds on feminist philosophy but takes an unusual position within it, as many feminist scholars have focused on reforming marriage rather than questioning its fundamental legitimacy. 🌍 Published in 2022, the book emerged during a period of declining marriage rates across Western societies, contributing to ongoing debates about the evolution of social institutions in modern life.