Gender and Dating Relationships

While reading the article I had many reactions to different comments and things said by the author. I think that there are definitely a lot of pressures that are placed on couples when getting married, which are usually all known as traditions. I personally see nothing wrong with a female proposing to a male or vice versa. I also think it is important for the couple to discuss marriage before one proposes. I think it should be a mutual decision and that both parties should be expecting to get married in the future. When I thought more about it, I realized that the proposal itself isn't much of a surprise but what is surprising is the manner and time it happens. I also do not see any problems with either the man or woman proposing makes a big romantic deal about the proposal. I think that if the person being proposed to would want something like that then it is a good way to show your love because you know the big production will make that person happy. In reference to taking the surname of the man, I think that this is more of a practical thing than one that shows male dominance and patriarchy. Though I understand how it makes the male dominant in a relationship it also unites the couple as a family and as two people joining together through marriage. When I read that this particular couple each had four names, I just thought that this seemed a little much as they would have to constantly be referred to by both names as to not insult their spouse. Also if they decided to have children it just seems complicated that they would have two last names. I think that some traditions are outdated and do show male dominance but I also do not see why these would need to change forever especially if both people in the couple are okay with them.