Arranged or Not?

Born and raised in an Indian family, I’ve heard it all. In terms of arranged marriages, that is. Born in India and moving to the US at the age of 5, I’ve also heard the ‘other side’….the ‘western version’. In South Asian and Middle Eastern cultures arranged marriages are quite common. Those unfamiliar with this concept may believe that the bride and groom are forced to tie the knot. However, this is certainly not the case in most modern cultures. Although the elders of the families do have an influence on the marriage, the bride and groom have the greatest say. However, the common idea is that the marriage is based on personalities and desires, without
emotional bias. Then once married, emotions are allowed to get involved.

In relation to Edward Herman’s work and his propaganda model, the media has greatly overemphasized some aspects of this situation. Many movies, television shows, and songs emphasize how youngsters go against their parents’ wishes. The media, along with obvious history, has set a standard among arranged marriages. Many of my friends, when we get on the topic of marriages, assume that I’m going to have an arranged marriage. Yet what they don’t know is that although arranged marriages are quite common in Eastern cultures, lots of couples find each other as well.

In contrast in Western cultures, arranged marriages may have a different connotation; one which is opposite that of Eastern ones. However, what most people don’t know is that one form of arranged marriages is quite common. Although inherent, many young people seek approval from their parents in regards to their future spouse. If either set of parents
are not completely on-board with the wedding, the bride or groom may think twice before committing. As a result, the elders in the family do have somewhat of an influence on the child's future spouse. And even though it's not as apparent as the influence in Eastern cultures, it is definitely present.