The Decline of Marriage Among Young People
This podcast examines the factors behind the decline of marriage and the abysmal fertility rates of modern Western culture, even amongst conservatives. Profound sociological changes and the decline of religiosity have contributed to the lessened impetus to marry. Can we reverse this trend?
In this episode of the Ruth Institute Podcast, we tune in to the Drew Mariani Show on Relevant Radio.
Natural State
Father Sullins, Ruth Institute’s Senior Research Associate, explains that marriage is a pre-governmental, transcendent institution, being founded in the Garden of Eden.
Yet, despite this glorious aspect, it has suffered major blows within the past seven decades, so much so, that it can be described as a universal decline of marriage.
Loss of Humanity
As he highlights in this podcast, inhumanity amongst young people has advanced to its heights, and this is largely because of advanced technology and social media. This inhumanity has led to the decline of young persons meeting and marrying each other.
This phenomenon also operates concurrently with what sociologists call the Advanced Specialisation of Modernity: that all of the functions in society that used to be grouped together have been differentiated and parcelled out from each other.
All of the goods and functions of marriage have come to operate independently from the institution itself.
No Motivation
Formerly, in marriage, men and women sought companionship, sex-relations, children, financial security, etc. They would buy a home together, they would plan a life together.
Those are all now things that young men and women do independently of marriage.
Yet, Father Sullins doesn’t leave it there. He emphasises that another big factor in the decline of marriage was the decline of religion, which has become empty and de-resonated. Wow!
Be sure to listen to get the full scoop!
___
Originally published at The Ruth Institute. Photo by yuksel kocaman from Pexels.
Recent Articles:
28 August 2026
1.4 MINS
When floods hit Nepal, killing dozens and leaving Australians missing, the Greens found their villain: Australian coal. A look at climate politics' newest ritual — the search for a sinner.
28 August 2026
5 MINS
Dolly Parton has died at 80, leaving behind a legacy of faith, generosity, and music. Tributes are pouring in from celebrities, politicians, and everyday fans she touched.
28 August 2026
2.8 MINS
A veteran Seattle Times sports columnist resigned after editors blocked his column defending Sophie Cunningham's stance on transgender athletes in women's sports, calling it a matter of journalistic integrity.
28 August 2026
2.6 MINS
Thomas Aquinas questioned Muhammad’s credentials to speak for God. His question remains uncomfortably relevant.
28 August 2026
5 MINS
Politics feels exhausting and toxic, but William Wilberforce's story shows why Christians shouldn't retreat from public life. His crisis of faith and calling offers a model for today.
27 August 2026
2.5 MINS
According to the bombshell report, the Biden administration told agencies to treat restrictions on these drugs as discrimination. The Trump administration now wants hospitals investigated.
27 August 2026
4.8 MINS
Bishop Fulton Sheen argued Communism and capitalism share a common root—materialism divorced from morality. That affinity, this piece argues, explains China's persecution of Christians today.
