The Big Questions

Life, death and free will.

Women Fight to Marry at Young Age

Age 8 Marriages Immoral?

Recently, a group of Muslim women rallied in protest. Interestingly, it was to oppose legislation that would prevent them from marrying young (in some cases as young as 8).

The group of women firmly believe that Islam prohibits these restrictions.

I heard this and I just thought it was an excellent example of how values and beliefs differ between groups. If an 8 year old were married in our culture, this would pretty much be seen as ridiculous, or, depending on the age of the man, repulsive.

But for these women it is standard procedure.

I have a strong visceral reaction to oppose 8 year old girls getting married. Obviously. But if they think it is ok, and I think it is wrong, then well, who is right?

I am sure they think a lot of stuff we find moral is totally reprehensible.  But I am right and they are wrong, right?

Or wait, why am I right again?



Subscribe to The Big Questions

Nathan Heflick completed his Ph.D. in social psychology at The University of South Florida.

more...