Why is Polygamy outlawed?

Question

My friend and I have been watching "Big Love" on HBO and were wondering why polygamy is illegal? We know that it's a federal law and all but why? What is the reason behind it?

Answer 1

CC - Don't be ignorant. It's a federal law, that makes it illegal in all states. Utah prosecutes polygamists, there are just a ton and it's hard to prove.

Kiley - Down girl! LOL I'm mormon, too. Watch your mouth. ;)

As for the question:
Although Latter-day Saints believed that their religiously-based practice of plural marriage was protected by the United States Constitution, the Supreme Court had already specifically held in 1878 that LDS polygamy was not protected by the Constitution, in the case of Reynolds v. U.S., 98 U.S. 145 (1878), under the longstanding legal principle that "Laws are made for the government of actions, and while they cannot interfere with mere religious belief and opinions, they may with practices." (Id. at 166.) Opponents used polygamy to delay Utah statehood until 1896. Increasingly harsh anti-polygamy legislation penalized church members, disincorporated the church, and permitted the seizure of church property until the church's leaders issued a declaration (commonly called the Manifesto) ordering the discontinuance of the practice in 1890.

Answer 2

Because this country was originally set-up by the Christian Protestant ethic. That ethic dictates one wife to a man.

If the US had been set up by Muslims or Mormons or other religions that believe in polygamy; then it would be legal. Utah had to give up their acceptance of polygamy in order to achieve Statehood.

In some countries women can take multiple husbands; like in Tibet. This is called polyandry.

I am all for whatever living condition make people happy. Polyandry would be nice if all my husbands brought me home their paychecks.

Answer 3

Because most of these people who are born into a polygamist society, don't realize the women are being
brainwashed into becoming slaves.
The several shows Anderson Cooper has done on this,
shows the reality of how women are regarded in this society.

Another reason is because every so often there becomes
a problem of too many young men. These guys are
usually banished out of the community to survive on their own.

Answer 4

the government was never intended to be tied with religion.. if you read the constitution, god is never mentioned... i dont agree with polygamy by any means, but i would rather see a muslim man marry two women than to see to men married together... in the muslim religion, they believe in polygamy, so why should we deny them that right? and in the christian religion we belive in monogamy, so should you be denied of that right? polygamy is outlawed because legislatures find it wrong, true...

Answer 5

2 motives: a) Christianity. even although the former testomony is finished of polygamy ("the Bible says one guy one woman" line is a lie). b) Exploitation of teenage women that is totally basic especially polygamist sects.

Answer 6

Well, it seems to be legal in Utah. I think its illegal for the same reasons that gays cannot get married. It's a moral issue. I am not religious...so, my point of view is different. What the heck is wrong with you? Are you so egotistical about your "manhood" that you need a gazillion wives to prove you have a "big" pee pee? Are you THAT insecure? Are you THAT controlling? It's a completely effed up situation that is completely about misogny.

So, I guess those people who are giving me a thumbs down are for polygamy? You all want a bunch of wives? Go you!

Answer 7

Excellent question. I had to stop and think. It probably has something to do with women's rights. However, I'd say no problem if women too were allowed to take on multiple husbands.

Answer 8

What the **** people? It's not legal in Utah. Mormons don't practice polygamy anymore.

Answer 9

Because no man should ever have to have more than one Mother in law. And it's a law to be sure they won't.

Answer 10

Because the rich would get all the beautiful women!