Polygyny

Abstract

Polygyny is the practice of one man marrying multiple women. While it is not the most commonly practiced marital union, it is practiced to some extent in at least 75 percent of societies worldwide. There are numerous theories about the causes and functions of polygyny. Sociobiological explanations focus on men's sexual desires and reproduction, while explanations based on behavioral ecology turn to the environmental factors that shape marital choices. Economic explanations have suggested that men gain more wealth through the acquisition of more wives, due to female sustenance contributions. However, the evidence surrounding economic theories proves to be weak. Demographic explanations explain polygyny through imbalanced sex ratios that are the result of high male mortality. Looking beyond the causes of polygynous unions, research also focuses on the lived experiences of those involved in such marriages, especially women's quality of life.