interesting links

As long as there were tribal groups, and plentiful food, the females were happy to accept dominant males. But, when life became more precarious, then mutually supportive pairs were a better survival option.

@ildar717 if the King could have a bunch of wives & "official girlfriends" there cannot be much against it in the "word of gawd" or prophets would, as they did frequently on other topics, show up to denounce him, and they did not! Many many kings indulged themselves, as did Abraham & etc. Lot married((or at least hadchildren by) both of his daughters........his wife being conveniently turned to salt.....
Annnnnndd How is answering your question with biblical references being "snarky", exactly?

@ildar717 Yes. So perhaps your question might be better posed as is it a societal ideal versus a biblical idea?

I think a lot more people (men and women) are unfaithful than we realize. Which is sad, to me, since most of us expect fidelity and are hurt by such a betrayal (excluding couples who agree to an open relationship.)

I guess true monogamy comes down to personal morals, values, preferences, and circumstances. My partner and I have deep love, respect, and chemistry, so the thought of being with someone else honestly never crosses our minds.

@ildar717 the bond that's formed when oxytocin is released..

@ildar717 the effects of oxytocin in men is unknown at this time...

@ildar717 I would say that it's based on the desire for paternity certainty (for men,) coupled with the desire for resource certainty (for women).

Each sex loses some freedom by monogamy, but each sex gains some level of security by it.

@AmyTheBruce resource certainty? Lmao

@Cutiebeauty That certainty may or may not be borne out by the facts!

But, in general, monogamy is one way to hedge our bets.