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    Back to Life Examined

    Life Examined

    The history of marriage and other forms of intimate relationships

    When it comes to intimate relationships one size does not fit all. Marriage and monogamy have a long history dating back thousands of years and even today value the emotional and financial security that comes with “tying the knot.”

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    By Jonathan Bastian • Feb 6, 2021 • 51m Listen

    When it comes to intimate relationships one size does not fit all. Marriage and monogamy have a long history dating back thousands of years and even today value the emotional and financial security that comes with “tying the knot.” Research suggests however that happiness is not exclusive to those who are in monogamous relationships. Some people are happiest single and others choose many lovers. Polyamory or consensual non-monogamy is under increased scrutiny offering couples new ways to redefine their relationship.

    In this episode

    2 stories
    1. 0:00

      How marriages and intimate relationships have evolved over the years

      Marriage is one of the oldest institutions in the world dating back thousands of years. Those early alliances were more contractoral; ensuring land, kinship and bloodline that today’s romantic marriages.

      Read the story
      28 min
    2. 28:27

      What’s behind the desire for a polyamorous relationship?

      One size does not fit all when it comes to intimate relationships. Marriage, monogamy, singlehood suit many of us but for some the idea of several partners offers freedom and variety.

      Read the story
      23 min
    • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

      Jonathan Bastian

      Host, Life Examined

    • KCRW placeholder

      Andrea Brody

      Senior Producer, KCRW's Life Examined and To the Point podcast

      CulturePhilosophyHistoryHealth & Wellness

    In this episode

    2 stories
    1. 0:0028 min

      How marriages and intimate relationships have evolved over the years

    2. 28:2723 min

      What’s behind the desire for a polyamorous relationship?

    Back to Life Examined