Final answer:
An arranged marriage is a marital union set up by families or third parties instead of being based solely on mutual attraction. It is a common practice in various cultures, and modern forms include the use of marriage brokers and online platforms. These marriages often focus on familial and societal benefits rather than just romantic love.
Step-by-step explanation:
An arranged marriage is a marital union predominantly orchestrated by others than those getting married, often with the involved individuals’ consent and sometimes without. It involves an intricate process of negotiations and interviews between families or can be facilitated by third parties such as marriage brokers or online matchmaking websites. This practice has been prevalent in various cultures and societies worldwide, and it persists in modern settings where individuals may find it challenging to locate a spouse who shares similar cultural values, especially in the context of globalization and increased mobility for work.
Arranged marriages are sometimes contrasted with love marriages, which are based on romantic attraction and personal choice, a common concept in Western societies like the United States. However, arranged marriages are not without their merits; they provide a framework for reducing stress and enhancing stability within the marital relationship. These marriages often consider broader familial and societal advantages rather than solely focusing on the emotional attachment between the spouses.