Is Marriage Actually a Poor Deal for Men? Debunking Misconceptions

The claims made by MGTOW (Men Going Their Own Way) advocates regarding marriage often stem from outdated or flawed sources. It's 2024, and times have changed, but many of these claims rely on outdated evidence. This article will address some of these misconceptions and provide a balanced view based on current knowledge and statistics.

Outdated Evidence and Misleading Statistics

The so-called evidence often cited by MGTOW regarding marriage and health benefits is outdated. Research from the 1970s does not accurately reflect modern realities. Contemporary studies show that while marriage can offer certain advantages, these benefits are far from guaranteed and can be highly variable.

For instance, the notion that married men live longer and tend to be healthier than their single counterparts is also questionable. While some research has supported this, modern studies have found that other factors, such as socioeconomic status and lifestyle, play significant roles. In many cases, men can outlive their single counterparts if they make the right choices and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Marriage as a Risky Proposition

The MGTOW perspective often focuses on the downsides of marriage, highlighting the risks and potential disasters that can occur.

Family Court System: Men who have dealt with the family court system can attest to the harrowing experience. Legal battles, financial ruin, and loss of assets can be devastating. The “married men live longer” myth has been debunked, and many men who lose everything after a divorce do not live longer. Financial Ruin: Divorce and alimony can lead to significant financial strain. Men who have to split assets and pay ongoing support often find themselves with significantly reduced resources. This can have a profound impact on their quality of life and longevity.

Former Marriage as a Path to Freedom

Ironically, some men view the end of a marriage as a liberation. Consider the case of someone who was trapped in an unhappy marriage and had to spend years working to support a home but ended up with a lot of debt. In contrast, they can now travel, enjoy sex with younger partners, and live a more fulfilling life.

One individual reflects on the situation, saying, “Being single allows me to live the way I want, without constraints. It’s like being an ‘outdoor cat’ when I used to be an ‘indoor cat’. I prefer the freedom and spontaneity of being single.”

Psychological Impact of Marriage

The psychological toll of marriage should not be underestimated. Some men find themselves depressed and disillusioned after their marriages end. They may not appear in the statistical records because of the immense emotional trauma involved.

One individual states, “I’m married and depressed. I don’t believe I appear in any such statistics. It is possible that this is made up, but how would you measure something that intangible?” This reflects the subjective nature of mental health and the challenges often faced post-divorce.

Divorce Rate and Mitigation Strategies

Divorce rates can vary widely based on demographic factors such as age, religion, and income. The general divorce rate being 50% is often misleading. For example, a married, mature Wiccan with a good income faces a much lower risk of divorce. Another crucial factor is the potential for financial ruin during a divorce.

Pre-nuptial agreements can significantly mitigate the risk of financial loss. By ensuring that both partners contribute equitably to assets, the impact of divorce can be reduced. Additionally, finding a wife at your own economic level can further protect your interests.

“The idea that you should avoid something because it won't be there one day is silly,” argues our narrator. Using the analogy of a dog, they suggest that enjoying a relationship today is more important than worrying about its future. Similarly, investing in a business has a high failure rate, yet people still start businesses.

Conclusion

Is marriage a poor deal for men? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. While there are risks and challenges, marriage can also offer significant benefits. The key is to navigate these challenges thoughtfully and prepare for potential scenarios. Whether one chooses marriage or other forms of committed relationships, the most important thing is to find a path that works best for their individual circumstances.