Can an arranged marriage ever work?

JillK (US)

Arranged marriages are not practiced in North America, but I do have an understanding from some people I know that arranged marriages last longer. Now, that doesn't mean the people are happier, just that the divorce rate is lower. I think people in arranged marriages stay together because they see it as an obligation/duty, which I admire.

On the other hand, I would assume it lacks the passion of marriage from love. The families I have met who are in arranged marriages appear to be really good people, but don't seem to have much affection toward each other. Both can be successful, but love marriages would be better if people would stop marrying for money, physical attraction and other superficial things or out of loneliness.

A paratrooper kisses his wife at the Paratroopers' Day celebrations at the VDNKh Exhibition Centre in Moscow,August 2, 2014. [Photo/IC]