Key points from the article:
1. Perception of a Widening Gender Rift: There is a perception that men and women are drifting apart politically and in their preferences regarding relationships. However, the evidence suggests a more complex picture.
2. Integration of Genders: Men and women today interact more with each other than in previous generations, both in educational and occupational settings. Informal norms also favor more mixing today than in the past.
3. Voting Patterns: While there are some correlations between gender and voting patterns, they are not strong enough to support the narrative of a widening gulf between men and women. Correlations with educational attainment and race are bigger than those with gender.
4. Changing Standards and Expectations: Economic and technological progress has reduced the necessity for romantic partnerships. Singlehood is now a more viable and acceptable option, leading to higher standards in partner selection.
5. Proliferation of Domestic Arrangements: Liberalization of norms has led to a proliferation of domestic arrangements, making choices regarding relationships more complex. This may contribute to dissatisfaction and a perception of a widening gender rift.
6. Challenges to Marriage: The future of marriage may be in question, not because of a gender divide on political or social issues, but because singlehood is a competitive option that often outcompetes marriage.
7. Making Marriage More Attractive: To address the challenges facing marriage, efforts could be made to make marriage more attractive. Love and intimacy, which involve commitment, are key attractions of marriage.
Overall, while there may be challenges to the institution of marriage, they stem more from changing societal norms and individual preferences than from a widening rift between men and women.
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