HOW THE DOWRY SYSTEM CHECKS HYPERGAMY

Shah Mirza (thisisshahofficial@gmail.com)
Author and Independent Researcher

Abstract

Dowry and bride price represent a transfer of wealth made at the time of marriage. Dowry-practising societies are typically characterised as monogamous, stratified, and as valuing private-property land ownership. In dowry-practising civilisations, hypergamy is of greater concern. This article shows how the dowry system discouraged hypergamy and helped maintain an ecosystem of balanced and equal marriages, especially within a society so often characterised by monogamous marriage and private-property ownership. Perhaps it is time to revitalise some of the core principles of the dowry system, rather than continuing to blame men for “falling behind” or “not stepping up,” and insisting that men should be the ones tasked with the financial burden of marriage.

Keywords: dowry, hypergamy, marriage, monogamy, love

Author Biography

Shah Mirza earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis in 2012, with a focus on ancient political theory and international relations. He has worked primarily within government, specialising in the Child Support Enforcement Program, where he has gained insight into the operation and impact of modern family law. His research and collaborative projects include work with academics such as Stephen Baskerville and men’s issues researchers including Paul Elam and Peter Wright. Shah has contributed to public discussions on family law, welfare policy, and historical marriage practices, joining prominent commentators on YouTube and other platforms. He hosts his own YouTube channel, This Is Shah, where he continues to explore and discuss these topics.

Contact details: thisisshahofficial@gmail.com

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