I realize that Holdar was presenting a hypothetical question, and that he would not be so irresponsible or immature as to live with a "girlfriend" and have children, sign mortgages, lease cars, buy insurance and invest jointly.
Only a moment's consideration of these circumstances would reveal the disarray this would cause in a civilization so irrational and muddled.
We all sign contracts for a myriad of transactions...and we live up to them or we resolve them in court.
I cannot imagine making the most serious commitment I could make in my business or personal life without a contract. Sure it would be fun to get laid for awhile, until the new fades - just like with a car - and then move on like a dog looking for one more bitch in heat.
Do you not see how this reduces us to the level of the most basic animal practices?
I am no saint. But I commited to a girl, told her then and tell her now:
"I will NEVER leave. Our marriage will not be dissolved...unless my life or the childrens' lives are in danger. (And even then divorce would be the last act.)
For a stable society, I believe it is the only way. And again, for a stable society, these marital transactions should only be between a male and female.
Two men or two women may form business partnerships. This is recognized by law. However these business partnerships should never be recognized as a social or religious contract, accepted by society as marriage.
Kudos on your post, and your attitude toward marriage.