Are Women Naturally Inclined Towards Hypergamy?
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Understanding Hypergamy
The idea that women often prefer partners who earn more than they do is a viewpoint frequently expressed, especially by men. But is this merely a perception, or is there some truth behind it? This concept is known as hypergamy, referring to the inclination to "marry up"—essentially, seeking a partner of higher socioeconomic status. Historically, hypergamy served as a critical mating strategy for women, as noted by Mark Manson in “The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck.”
For much of history, romantic love was not prioritized. Up until the mid-1800s, love was often considered a hindrance to more pressing life matters—like agriculture or securing a financially advantageous marriage. Young people were frequently discouraged from pursuing romantic interests in favor of practical, economic unions that provided security for themselves and their families.
Is there merit to the notion that women are inherently more hypergamous? While I have my suspicions, it remains uncertain. Let’s delve into the evidence.
Insights from Recent Research
A study conducted by the University of British Columbia in 2016 revealed an interesting trend: while women often achieve higher educational qualifications than men, they tend to partner with those who earn more than they do. This raises questions about the dynamics in modern relationships.
Another research project examined the income disparities in couples from 1980 to 2012. The findings indicated a shift in educational assortative mating; from 1980 to around 2012, the trend of women marrying up in education reversed. However, the pattern of women marrying men with higher incomes remained consistent. Notably, well-educated women were more inclined to seek partners with greater financial resources.
What accounts for this enduring inclination?
Reasons Behind Hypergamy
The motives behind hypergamy are complex. A common but erroneous stereotype is that women are "gold diggers," a claim often voiced by men facing financial challenges. While some individuals may fit this stereotype, it overlooks more rational explanations for seeking a financially stable partner:
- The Gender Pay Gap: Historically, women have earned significantly less than men, and even today, the wage disparity persists. Given this disadvantage, it is pragmatic for women to seek partners who are financially secure, particularly when considering child-rearing.
- Evolutionary Perspectives: The Parental Investment Theory suggests that the sex investing more in offspring tends to be more selective in choosing partners. For humans, this is predominantly the case for women. Financial stability can enhance quality of life and increase offspring survival rates, making hypergamy a sensible evolutionary strategy.
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Chapter 2: The Role of Hypergamy Today
Understanding hypergamy and its implications is crucial for modern relationships. This video explores the dynamics of hypergamy and female nature, offering insights that every man should consider.
The second video further elaborates on hypergamy and its significance in contemporary dating, making it essential viewing for anyone navigating relationships today.