This course provides a cross-cultural and global perspective on society's two vital institutions: Marriage and the Family. Comparative analysis is used throughout the course to enhance student appreciation of the inter-cultural variability and similarity in these institutions. Topics include: history and sociology of marriage and the family; diversity in American families; work and family; marriage, love, and sexuality; divorce and remarriage; family violence; parenting; the state and family policies. The comparative analysis is employed at two levels: (a) variations within the American culture: Euro-American, Afro-American, Latin American, Asian American. Attention is also given to extraordinary groups which represent unconventional life styles: The Old Order Amish, The Oneida Community, The Mormons. (b) Variations between world cultures. Some examples: Old Chinese Society; Nayars of India; Eskimos; Tribes of the Himalayas; Islamic revolutionary movements and their impact on divorce and women's rights; End of Apartheid in South Africa and its effect on family life; Arranged marriages and dowry system in India; Onechild policy in modern China; Computer revolution and Japanese courtship and mate-selection system; Role of state religion in national family planning policies: Islamic and Catholic societies vs. secular societies; Female genital mutilation in Africa and the United Nations role in eradicating this age-old custom. These and other illustrations are discussed throughout the course. Students are required to engage in further research on selected topics emphasizing cross-cultural perspectives and to present oral reports to the class. This course is open to both associate and baccalaureate degree students.