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Since the family is the irreducible core unit of cities or…

“Since the family is the irreducible core unit of cities or any other political order, one may say the same thing of marriage: it was established to render justice, to give each his due—in this case, what is due between husband and wife in the inimitably unique relationship that they form. Owing to…” quote by Robert R. Reilly
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““Since the family is the irreducible core unit of cities or any other political order, one may say the same thing of marriage: it was established to render justice, to give each his due—in this case, what is due between husband and wife in the inimitably unique relationship that they form. Owing to the exceptional complementarity and procreative potential of a husband and a wife, the legal form for their relationship is likewise distinctive, and not replicable for other relationships that are neither complementary nor potentially reproductive.””

Robert R. Reilly

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Marriage is presented as a unique, complementary partnership designed to deliver justice and fulfill procreative purposes, distinct from other relationships.

In simple terms: Marriage is a special partnership for justice and procreation.

Key Takeaway

Recognize marriage’s unique role.

Themes

family justice marriage political order

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • family counseling
  • policy drafting
  • relationship education
  • social research

Key Concepts

complementarity procreation legal theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view of marriage affect gender equality?
  • Can non‑reproductive partnerships be equally valued?
A Different Perspective

Not all societies view marriage this way; cultural variations exist.

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