The Concept of Marital Relationships in Western Thought: An Analytical Comparative Study 10.35781/1637-000-134-005

Abstract

This research examines the radical transformation of the concept of marriage in Western thought, analyzing its profound shifts across major philosophical and social stages-from ancient Greek philosophy to contemporary modernity. The study aims to trace the historical and philosophical trajectory of the institution of marriage in order to understand the intellectual foundations behind contemporary debates on family structure, equality, and gender identity, and to clarify the roots of legal recognition of new forms of relationships. The research adopts a historical-analytical methodology to track the chronological development of the concept, alongside a comparative approach to draw contrasts between various philosophical perspectives (Classical, Enlightenment, Existentialist). Additionally, it employs textual analysis to examine the foundational biblical view of marriage. Key Findings: • The concept of marriage has undergone a radical shift from being a social institution serving the state to a personal contract aimed at individual happiness. •Major philosophical movements have redefined marriage: the Enlightenment viewed it as a rational contract, Romanticism as an emotional union, while existentialist and feminist critiques saw it as a tool for restricting individual freedom. •The sexual revolution and liquid modernity led to the separation of sex from marriage and reproduction, resulting in the emergence of concepts such as "liquid love" and fragile, temporary bonds. •The biblical perspective presents marriage as a divine covenant-monogamous and enduring- between a man and a woman, based on mutual submission and sacrificial love.