Marriage and Morals

By Bertrand Russell

Book Overview

"Marriage and Morals" is a provocative and intellectually rigorous exploration of the social, historical, and philosophical foundations of human relationships. In this influential work, Bertrand Russell examines the evolution of sexual ethics and the institution of marriage, challenging the rigid conventions of his time with a call for reason and compassion. Through a series of insightful essays, Russell deconstructs the origins of traditional moral codes, discussing the impact of economic structures, religious doctrines, and the historical subjugation of women on modern domestic life.

The text delves into complex themes such as the purpose of the family unit, the concept of companionate marriage, and the psychological effects of sexual repression. Russell argues for a more enlightened approach to morality that prioritizes human happiness and intellectual freedom over dogmatic tradition. "Marriage and Morals" remains a seminal text in social philosophy, offering a timeless critique of how societal norms shape our most intimate bonds. This work stands as a testament to Russell's commitment to social reform and his belief in the power of rational inquiry to improve the human condition. It is an essential read for those interested in the history of social thought and the development of modern ethical standards.

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• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025392590
• ISBN13: 9781025392592
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 328 Pages
• Weight: 1.01 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.2" x 0.7" x 6.1"

Customer Reviews

Provocative

It's hard not to cheer when you realize Russell wrote so forward-thinking a piece in the late '20s. Its ideas are still being debated today, especially in light of the recent trend toward opting out of conventional, legally bound marriages in Western countries. As a married man myself, I found Russell's condemnation of conventional sexual morality quite convincing. He doesn't advocate immature hedonism, nor does he pardon all infidelity. He actually favors marriage when children are involved. He simply rocks the foundation of marriage on Christian asceticism ('fornication is sin') and the need for certain paternity. He gives an anthropological & historical perspective on the issue that is broader than anything you're likely to hear in current debates.My only complaint with this otherwise provocative & well-reasoned work is that some of his commentary borders on anti-Catholic. I'm not Catholic myself, but I couldn't help but wonder whether some of his persistent jabs at the Church weren't motivated by a prejudice common at that time. That isn't to say he doesn't critique Protestant morality as well, but he seems to take inordinate glee in poking the Vatican.

Marriage & Morals

I found this book very well-written and full of information about the history of marriage, sexual ethics, and morals. Bertrand, in his usual style, examines the social problems of his time and why they exist. This book was written in 1929, but is still logical and modern in thinking. Bertrand wittily and cynically speaks out against the restrictive dogmas of sex and love: ?It would seem that it is only with the introduction of the patriarchal system that men came to desire virginity in their brides. Where the matrilineal system exists young women sow their wild oats as freely as young men, but this could not be tolerated when it became of great importance to persuade women that all intercourse outside of marriage is wicked.? I strongly recommend this book for anyone doing a research paper on love, marriage, or sexual ethics. If you?re looking for something to make you think, it?s also a great book. I give it four out of five stars.

An Objective Criticism of Conventional Sexual Morality

In this, one of his most brilliant works, Lord Russell educates the reader about the evils of traditional sexual morals. He explains how conventional views on sex have had a harmful and detrimental effect on the individual, and on society at large.According to Russell, the taboos on pre-marital and extra-marital sex, which were promoted by several different religious institutions, including the Church, as well as by a countless number of moralizing zealots, are totally unjustified. Moreover, as he points out, they do not take into account the practical realities of life.It is indeed tragic that Russell (who died in 1970) did not live to see the full fledged effects of the Sexual Liberation movement, which began in the 1960s. The taboo on pre-marital sex has been dispensed with in most Western countries, though extra-marital affairs are not yet fully acceptable, and are branded as acts of 'infidelity'.A superb read for anyone with more than a passing interest in matters of sexuality.

An old book, but surprisingly still interesting

This book was originally published in 1929 so in many ways it is inevitably dated. But in many ways it is still fresh, and despite all the talk about "new morality", the controversies in his day still rage today. (This is the book that got Lord Russell in so much trouble at City College of New York) What is unique about this book that it addresses some of the dilemmas of domestic life. Dilemmas that are real yet apparently other writers don't have the courage to face.This book deserves to be in the library of every serious thinker.