Your views on MARRIAGE

[Jenny A]

Honestly, at this point, I don't see much of a point in codifying marriage at all. It's pretty much based on a fundamentally patriarchal view of women, and, now that we're moving away from that, what's really left? Essentially a commitment for two people to stay together no matter what (or at least until they realise they aren't suited to each other).

And what is the point in formalising that, let alone having the government need to recognise that?

Actually, it isn't anymore.  There is no legal difference between husband and wife in most state.   It's really is just the economic and legal union of two people's interests.   It's especially useful concerning children, medical care, splitting up and old age.