Final answer:
Exogamy is the cultural rule that requires a person to marry outside their social group. It's distinct from endogamous marriages, which occur within the same social group, and both are shaped by societal norms and values.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a cultural rule states a person must marry outside the group, this is called exogamy. Exogamous marriages are unions of spouses from different social categories and are often formed based on values such as love and compatibility. In contrast, an endogamous marriage is where people marry within their own social class or group. Cultures have various rules regarding marriage, including those that establish who is an appropriate partner.
All societies have norms that regulate marriage practices, including rules of endogamy and exogamy. These norms can be influenced by various factors, including social, religious, and legal considerations. In some societies, polygamy is another aspect of marriage practice, referring to the union of more than two adults at the same time. The trends toward marriage customs reflect both historical traditions and contemporary societal changes.