The Ethics of Marriage

Introduction — Explains why difficult and usually private matters must be discussed openly for moral, medical, and social reasons. Chapter I: The Family and the State — Argues that the family and the State are mutually dependent, and that civic reform begins with family reform. Chapter II: Marriage — Discusses the nature, purpose, and ethical responsibilities of marriage. Chapter III: The Perversion of Marriage — “The American Sin” — Criticizes practices viewed by the author as violations of marriage and parenthood. Chapter IV: The Mission of the Child — Presents the child as central to the moral purpose of family life. Chapter V: Heredity — Explores the relation between parental conduct, inheritance, and the condition of future generations. Chapter VI: Woman’s Work — Discusses women’s education, vocation, social role, and their relation to maternity and family life. Chapter VII: Over-Population — Addresses arguments concerning population and parenthood. Chapter VIII: Other Bars to Parenthood — Examines additional obstacles to family formation and parental responsibility. Chapter IX: Suggestions — Offers practical and moral recommendations.