This book offers a bold reinterpretation of monogamy, framing it not as a reflection of romantic desire but as a calculated effort to secure exclusivity from a partner.
Despite widespread dissatisfaction, infidelity, and high divorce rates, monogamy remains the dominant relationship model. Rather than attributing this persistence to irrationality or tradition, James K. Beggan explores monogamy as a defensive practice-a strategic agreement in which individuals seek commitment primarily to ensure their partner's fidelity. Rooted in fear of loss, jealousy, and emotional insecurity, this book reveals how monogamy often functions as a protective mechanism rather than a mutual aspiration. People overestimate their ability-or willingness-to uphold monogamous commitments, viewing them less as personal convictions and more as tools for managing risk. Drawing on interdisciplinary research across behavioral economics, psychology, sociology, and decision science, this book reconceptualizes monogamy as a form of social bargaining. By shifting the focus from morality to strategy, it challenges the ideal of romantic exclusivity and raises a provocative question: Are declarations of loyalty expressions of love, or are they evidence of doubt dressed as devotion?
eBook - PDF
The Strategic Use of Fidelity in Romantic Relationships
Defensive Monogamy and Self-Protection
- 297 pages
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
eBook - PDF
The Strategic Use of Fidelity in Romantic Relationships
Defensive Monogamy and Self-Protection
About this book
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Table of contents
- Cover
- Half Title
- Title Page
- Copyright Page
- Contents
- Introduction
- Part I: The Holy Grail of Monogamy
- Chapter 1: The Meaning of Monogamy
- Chapter 2: The Monogamy Game
- Chapter 3: Marriage and Monogamy
- Chapter 4: Rationalizing Monogamy
- Chapter 5: Performative Monogamy
- Part II: The Downside of Monogamy
- Chapter 6: Committing to Defensive Monogamy
- Chapter 7: Commitment in Relationships
- Part III: Rejecting Monogamy and Matrimony
- Chapter 8: Infidelity
- Chapter 9: Divorce and Consensual Nonmonogamy
- Conclusion
- References
- Index
- About the Author
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Yes, you can access The Strategic Use of Fidelity in Romantic Relationships by James K. Beggan in PDF and/or ePUB format, as well as other popular books in Social Sciences & Human Sexuality in Psychology. We have over 1.5 million books available in our catalogue for you to explore.