Burden Quote by Dallin H. Oaks
“Let's not forget that for thousands of years the institution of marriage has been between a man and a woman. Until quite recently, in a limited number of countries, there has been no such thing as a marriage between persons of the same gender. Suddenly we are faced with the claim that thousands of years of human experience should be set aside because we should not discriminate in relation to the institution of marriage. When that claim is made, the burden of proving that this step will not undo the wisdom and stability of millennia of experience lies on those who would make the change.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2020
Traditional marriage is presented as a stable, historic institution, and changes must be justified against that legacy.
In simple terms: Marriage has long been man‑woman; change needs proof.
Key Takeaway
Consider historical context before redefining.
Themes
tradition
marriage
social change
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
theological
sociopolitical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- family counseling
- religious education
Key Concepts
social stability
legal precedent
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence shows marriage stability?
- How do cultures adapt long‑standing institutions?
A Different Perspective
Societal norms evolve, making past stability less decisive.
