--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Using the existence of a marriage license…" description: "\"Using the existence of a marriage license to determine when the state should protect interpersonal relationships is increasingly impractical.\" — Stepha..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1d5/stephanie-coontz-3365_existence_using-the-existence-of-a-marriage-licens_1918317.png" --- # Using the existence of a marriage license to determine… ![“Using the existence of a marriage license to determine when the state should protect interpersonal relationships is increasingly impractical.” quote by Stephanie Coontz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1d5/stephanie-coontz-3365_existence_using-the-existence-of-a-marriage-licens_1918317.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1d5/stephanie-coontz-3365_existence_using-the-existence-of-a-marriage-licens_1918317.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/1d5/stephanie-coontz-3365_existence_using-the-existence-of-a-marriage-licens_1918317.png) > “Using the existence of a marriage license to determine when the state should protect interpersonal relationships is increasingly impractical.” [Stephanie Coontz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/stephanie-coontz/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Relying on marriage licenses to decide state protection is outdated as relationships diversify. **In simple terms:** Marriage license is an outdated basis for legal protection. Key Takeaway Seek broader definitions of relationship protection. Themes law marriage state relationships equality Mood thoughtful analytical Type policy philosophical When to use this quote - family law - civil unions - cohabitation - L parenting Key Concepts sociology public policy human rights Questions to Reflect On - How should the state protect non‑marital relationships? - What criteria better reflect modern partnerships? 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