"The History of Human Marriage" is a book written by Edward Westermarck, a Finnish philosopher and sociologist. The book is a comprehensive survey of marriage practices and customs throughout human history, drawing on examples from cultures around the world. Westermarck's central thesis is that the institution of marriage is not a universal or natural phenomenon, but rather a product of cultural and historical forces. Throughout the book, Westermarck examines a range of topics related to marriage, including the role of religion, the influence of economic and political factors, and the evolution of family structures. He also discusses the various forms of marriage found in different cultures, from monogamy and polygamy to group marriage and same-sex marriage. One of the key contributions of Westermarck's work is his emphasis on the importance of understanding marriage as a social and cultural institution, rather than simply a biological or moral imperative.
Edward Westermarck was a Finnish philosopher and sociologist who lived from 1862 to 1939. He is best known for his pioneering work in the fields of anthropology and sociology, particularly in the study of human sexuality and marriage. Westermarck was born in Helsinki, Finland, and studied at the University of Helsinki before pursuing further studies in Berlin and London. He worked as a lecturer and professor in various institutions throughout his career, including the University of Helsinki and the London School of Economics. One of Westermarck's most significant contributions to the field of sociology was his theory of the incest taboo, which he developed in his book "The History of Human Marriage". He argued that the taboo against incest was not a universal or innate human trait, but rather a product of social and cultural factors. Westermarck was also a vocal advocate for sexual and gender equality, and his work challenged many traditional assumptions about the role of women in society.
