Question

A. Please explain an example of a system that is an institution, and defend that characterization through reference to at least 4 attributes of an institution.

B. Which theory of institutional change best fits the institution you described earlier? Why is that theory more appropriate than the others to describe changes to that institution over time?

Answer 1

The characteristics of an institution may be described as:

• Institutions regulate the conduct of people in society.
• Institutions operate as per the collective activities of people.
• Every institution has got a symbol, material or non-material.
• Every institution rules that must be followed by the members.
• The institution has definite procedures, like customs, which prescribe the way of doing things.
• Institutions are relatively permanent and last a generation or more.
• Institutions have one or more clear aim
• Institutions not external, visible or tangible.
• Institutions are universal and exist in all societies

Marriage is an institution and can be justified as per the following:

1. Marriage as an institution regulates society to a great extent
2. Marriages are represented by symbols as per the society norms and customs
3. Every society sets some rules for marriages that must be followed by the members of the society
4. Marriage is a universal institution that has lasted for generations

Marriage as an institution is seen to follow Theories of evolutionary institutional change. These theories believe that institutional change is a result of human actions, such as learning, imitation, etc. The changed rules or behaviors are due to a decentralized selection process. Thus, successful institutions adapt and grow and vice versa.

Let us apply this to the institution of marriage. The society has moved from arranged marriages to a society where is it more common for brides and bridegrooms to choose their own partners, spend some time to understand each other before getting married. Elaborate customs have given in to those that suit the current life-styles while some other inter-cultural customs have got adopted. It is important to understand that because of these changes, the institution still exists. In the absence of such changes, the institution of marriage will crumble and fall.