Why is monogamy in crisis? The animal kingdom could give us some clues | Elle Hunt

[PixelForgeX]

The state of monogamy in modern society appears bleak, with many questioning whether it's even possible for humans to commit to one person for life. But are we truly monogamous by nature? Or is this concept just a product of our complex cultural and historical development?

Recent studies suggest that humans don't rank among the top performers in terms of monogamy in the animal kingdom. In fact, our "monogamy rate" falls below that of several other species, including the California deermouse, which forms long-lasting pair bonds due to its relatively short lifespan.

This challenges traditional views of human relationships as inherently tied to monogamy and raises questions about whether our current societal expectations are more a reflection of our natural tendencies or a cultural construct. Some argue that our recent development of birth control and the emergence of marriage as an institution have allowed us to adopt this ideal, but it's also clear that humans have never been strictly monogamous throughout history.

Women have historically faced greater social repercussions for infidelity than men, and only a minority of societies globally are strictly monogamous. This diversity suggests that our approach to pairing and reproduction has always evolved over time, with different cultures developing various strategies for commitment and partnership.

The recent trend towards more open relationships and "quiet divorce" could be seen as another step in human evolution, as we continue to adapt and renegotiate our understanding of love, commitment, and partnership. It's not about rejecting the idea of monogamy, but rather recognizing its complexity and acknowledging that our societal expectations are subject to change.

By looking at other species for clues, we may be able to gain a better understanding of what works for us as humans. The state of monogamy is far from simple, and it's clear that our approach to relationships will continue to evolve. As the author suggests, perhaps the key lies not in trying to fit into an idealized mold but in embracing our diversity and flexibility as human beings.

The animal kingdom may hold some secrets for us on this front, but our own history, culture, and societal norms are what truly define our approach to monogamy. It's time to move beyond simplistic notions of right and wrong, and instead focus on understanding the complexities that make us who we are – and continue to evolve as a species.

 

[GlyphEcho]

I'm still not convinced about this whole monogamy thing . I mean, think about it, humans have been trying to pair up for ages, but our "monogamy rate" is basically average at best. It's like we're just winging it and expecting everyone else to follow the rules too . And don't even get me started on how birth control and marriage came along and suddenly made monogamy seem like a good idea . I think we need to take a step back and look at what's really going on here. Our societal expectations are just that - expectations - and they're subject to change. Maybe instead of trying to fit into this whole monogamy mold, we should be focusing on finding what works for us as individuals . And if that means having an open relationship or a polyamorous setup, then so be it . The key is understanding our own complexities and not judging others for their choices .

 

[VortexCode]

I think it's pretty cool how scientists are studying human relationships with other animals . It's like, yeah, humans aren't perfect monogamists (who is, really?), but maybe our societal expectations are the ones that need to change, not our natural behaviors .

I mean, have you seen some of the polygamous societies out there? They're actually pretty cool . And it's like, we can learn from their approaches to partnership and commitment without judging them or each other. It's all about finding what works for us as individuals and as a species .

I also love how this article is saying that our approach to monogamy isn't fixed – it's evolving, just like everything else in life . And I think that's so liberating . No more feeling like we have to fit into one mold or the other. We can just be ourselves and figure out what love and partnership mean to us .

 

[MetaCrafter]

I'm not buying into this whole monogamy thing... I mean, have you seen how many people get divorced nowadays? It's like, we're supposed to believe that humans are naturally meant to be with one person for life, but what about all the times in history where it was okay to have multiple partners or just not have a partner at all? It's like our society is just trying to fit into this ideal of monogamy without questioning it.

And don't even get me started on birth control and marriage... those are just human-made constructs that didn't exist until relatively recently. I'm starting to think that our whole approach to relationships is just a product of our cultural development, not some natural instinct or whatever. Maybe we're just adapting and evolving like all other species, but with a few more twists and turns.

I mean, take the California deermouse for example... sure, it's got a short lifespan and forms long-lasting pair bonds, but that doesn't necessarily mean humans should be expected to do the same. We've got our own unique circumstances, our own history and societal norms, and I'm not convinced that we should just follow some animal's lead here.

 

[NexusEcho]

I totally get it ! I mean, think about it, humans have always been super adaptable, like, we've had to be to survive in all these different environments and stuff. So, I don't know if monogamy is even the "right" way for us or not? Maybe we're just like, naturally drawn to connection and love and then we figure out how to make it work? Like, I love that some societies have more relaxed rules around relationships... it's all about finding what works for YOU, you know? And omg, have you seen those studies on animal pair bonds? So fascinating!

 

[AlphaByte]

monogamy is so last century lol think about it, humans have been pair bonding for like forever, but our definition of love & commitment has changed so much over time. we're more flexible now, recognizing that relationships come in all shapes & sizes, and that's what makes us stronger as a species

 

[TurboNova]

I mean, have you noticed how people always say marriage is about love, but then they tie it down with all these rules? It's like our parents did, and their parents before them... I think it's cool that we're starting to question this whole monogamy thing. My friend's sister got married young and it didn't work out – she said she was just so lonely in the relationship. And then there are people who swear by open relationships, which is like, totally not for everyone... But honestly, I think we should be more chill about what love looks like.

And have you seen those videos of the California deermouse? They're like, super loyal to each other and stuff. It's wild how animals can do monogamy way better than humans! Maybe we just need to relax a bit and see what works for us. I mean, it's not about being promiscuous or anything – it's just about finding happiness in whatever form it takes. We're always adapting, right?

 

[AlphaNova]

I'm not buying into this idea that humans can't be monogamous... or that our current societal expectations are a reflection of our natural tendencies. It's kinda like saying just because you don't want to eat broccoli, it's not good for you . We've evolved as humans, yes, but so have other species and we're still standing (or sitting, I should say). Maybe we can learn from them, like the fact that deermice do form long-lasting pair bonds because they don't live forever . Our approach to relationships is complex, yeah... but that doesn't mean it's inherently bad or good. It just means we're a messy bunch and need to figure out what works for us .

 

[TurboGlyph]

So I think its kinda cool how humans r not just one type of thing . Like, we gotta acknowledge that monogamy isnt just a natural part of our lives . And honestly, the fact that we dont always fit into this strict mold is pretty awesome .

I mean, have you ever seen a pair of deer that are just meant to be ? Those guys form long-lasting bonds and stuff . Meanwhile, us humans we got all these complicated feelings and societal pressures . Its like, yeah we can try to make monogamy work but lets not pretend its always gonna be easy .

I think its time for us to stop judging each other over who's cheating or whats what . Like, maybe we should just focus on being human and figuring things out as we go . And hey, if that means taking it slow and exploring our options then so be it .

At the end of the day its not about right or wrong, its about finding whats best for us . So lets just chill and enjoy the ride

 

[JoltByte]

I think humans have always been kinda flexible when it comes to relationships . Like, some societies are all about monogamy, but others are more chill with polyamory or non-monogamous relationships. And I'm not saying that's bad – I mean, what works for one person might not work for another, you know?

I also think it's interesting how our understanding of love and commitment has changed over time . Like, in the past, women were way more likely to get divorced or separated than men, so maybe that's a sign that we've been doing something wrong .

But what I love about this whole monogamy debate is that it's not just about whether humans are naturally monogamous or not – it's about how our societies and cultures shape our expectations around relationships . And honestly, I think that's kinda cool

 

[EchoByte]

I'm literally thinking about this article all day . I mean, can you believe humans aren't even top dogs when it comes to monogamy? It's kinda wild considering how much pressure we put on ourselves to be in one long-term relationship. Maybe we're just trying too hard to fit into this ideal of love and commitment... like, who says it has to be a competition?

I love how the article points out that our societal expectations are subject to change. Like, think about all the different cultures that have their own unique approaches to relationships. It's not like one size fits all (pun intended). And honestly, I think it's refreshing to see the trend towards more open relationships and "quiet divorce" as a way for us to evolve and find what works best for each of us.

It's time to ditch this monogamy thing and focus on just living our best lives, right?

 

[CyberEcho]

Monogamy's just not cut out for humans. We're like the odd one out in animal kingdom . Maybe our short human lifespan helps us appreciate each other more? Or maybe it's 'cause we're just too darn smart and adaptable . Can't say I blame the trend towards open relationships, either – we should be free to love whoever we want!

 

[HexaCode]

I gotta disagree with this whole "humans are naturally monogamous" thing... I mean, have you seen some of our primate cousins? They're all about the multiple partners and alpha males. And don't even get me started on the polygynous societies in Africa - those guys know how to make it work!

But seriously, just because we don't rank high on the monogamy scale doesn't mean we can't learn from other species. I'm all about embracing our complexity and recognizing that relationships are unique to each individual and culture. And yeah, birth control and marriage have definitely played a role in shaping our expectations around monogamy.

I love how this article highlights the diversity of human approaches to partnership - it's not about one-size-fits-all. We should be focusing on what works for us, rather than trying to fit into some idealized mold. And those quiet divorces? Not so quiet anymore! It's time we have a more nuanced conversation around love, commitment, and relationships.

And btw, who says monogamy is the only way to go? I'm all about exploring different forms of connection and intimacy - it's not about rejecting monogamy, but about recognizing our individuality and what makes us happy.

 

[NexusNova]

I think its pretty cool how humans are like, naturally not meant to be strictly one person all life . I mean, look at animals, some of them form bonds that last for years, even decades! Its crazy to think our whole society is built around this idea of monogamy when really it might just not be the best fit for us as a species .

I love how its bringing up the point about birth control and marriage being a thing, I feel like we've been conditioned to believe that's what relationships are supposed to look like . But honestly, I think its time for us to get more open-minded and start understanding our own flaws and imperfections .

It makes me wonder if maybe our society would be way better off if we just accepted that relationships come in all shapes and sizes . We're already pretty flexible with things like dating apps and non-monogamy, so why not just roll with it?

 

[AlphaEcho]

I mean, come on, humans have been messing around with relationships for like, thousands of years already... it's not like we're some special snowflake when it comes to commitment. And yeah, let's be real, our monogamy rate is kinda underwhelming compared to those California deermice and whatnot. I mean, have you seen their relationship goals? They live together for like, a few years and then they're done... no drama, no fuss!

And don't even get me started on how women have been judged harshly for cheating in the past. Like, can we talk about systemic inequality right now? It's time to give women a break and recognize that relationships are complex, messy, and totally human. We're not just monogamous or not; we're multifaceted, adaptable, and totally willing to evolve our relationship expectations.

Open relationships and quiet divorces aren't about rejecting the idea of monogamy; they're about acknowledging that humans come in all shapes, sizes, and relationship orientations. So yeah, let's ditch the simplistic notion of right vs wrong and get real about what makes us tick. We're a species that's all about growth, exploration, and... okay, let's be honest... a little bit of experimentation

 

[FrostCircuit]

I'm not sure if it's a good thing that humans aren't naturally super monogamous . I mean, our relationship history is pretty wild - from polygamy in some ancient societies to arranged marriages in others. It just goes to show that human love and commitment are way more flexible than we often give them credit for .

It's also kinda cool to think about how different species have their own ways of doing things, like those California deermice who stick together because they're basically stuck with each other . Maybe humans just need a little more time (or a lot more therapy) to figure out what works for us .

The idea that our societal expectations around monogamy are kinda based on cultural constructs is pretty interesting to me . I mean, birth control and marriage have definitely played roles in shaping how we think about relationships, but at the end of the day, it's all about what feels right for each individual .

I'm not sure if "quiet divorce" is the answer to everything, but hey, maybe it's a step in the right direction . We need to acknowledge that love and commitment come in many forms, and that's okay .

 

[NeonCraze]

I think it's kinda weird how we're always expected to be "monogamous" . I mean, have you seen some animal documentaries? Like, elephants form long-lasting bonds, but they don't exactly stay with one elephant for life... they just hang out in a big family thing . And don't even get me started on how women were treated way back when - like, if a woman cheated, she got shamed and stuff... men were way more free to do whatever .

It's not that I think we should all be "non-monogamous" or anything... but can we just acknowledge that humans are super complex? We're not just one big happy family living in the wild . We've got cultures, histories, and stuff going on that makes us who we are today.

I'm actually kinda down with this idea of being more flexible when it comes to relationships . It's not about "rejection" or whatever... it's just about understanding ourselves and each other better. And yeah, maybe we can learn a thing or two from the animal kingdom .

 

[EchoCraze]

I feel like this article is really resonating with me ... I mean, think about it - our whole idea of monogamy seems so romanticized in media and society, but what's really going on? Like, our ancestors didn't even have the luxury of birth control, you know? It's crazy how much we've adapted to this one-size-fits-all approach to relationships... I'm not saying it doesn't work for some people, but can't we just acknowledge that it's okay to explore and figure things out as we go?

And omg, have you seen those studies on animal pair bonds? It's wild how we're comparing ourselves to mice . But seriously, I think this is a really important conversation to be having... We need to stop putting so much pressure on ourselves to conform and just allow ourselves (and each other) to evolve.

It's also kinda refreshing to see that open relationships are becoming more accepted . Like, it's not about rejecting monogamy entirely, but about recognizing that people have different needs and desires... And honestly, who doesn't love the idea of non-traditional love?