Oscar Wilde: 'Bigamy is having one wife too many. Monogamy is the same.'

Bigamy is having one wife too many. Monogamy is the same.

In this blog article, we will delve into the famous quote by Oscar Wilde, "Bigamy is having one wife too many. Monogamy is the same." At first glance, this quote appears to be a humorous remark on the nature of relationships and the institution of marriage. However, upon closer inspection, it also introduces an unexpected philosophical concept, inviting us to question the conventional assumptions surrounding monogamy and explore alternative perspectives.At its core, the quote suggests that both bigamy and monogamy can be seen as having one partner too many. Bigamy is typically defined as the act of entering into a marriage with more than one person simultaneously, while monogamy is understood as the practice of having only one spouse at a time. Wilde's witty remark highlights the idea that the challenges and complexities inherent in having one partner can exist regardless of whether one chooses multiple spouses or adheres to the socially accepted norm of monogamy.Traditionally, monogamy has been upheld as the ideal relationship model in many societies, promoting commitment, loyalty, and emotional intimacy between two individuals. However, Wilde's quote prompts us to question this societal assumption and explore the possibility that monogamy is not immune to challenges. It invites us to examine the expectations and pressures placed on individuals in monogamous relationships and consider how these may impact personal happiness and fulfillment.One philosophical concept that arises from this quote is the idea of relational abundance versus scarcity. In a monogamous framework, there is an implicit assumption that a single partner should fulfill all our emotional, sexual, and companionship needs. However, this concept of scarcity suggests that expecting one person to meet all these needs may be unrealistic and potentially detrimental to the relationship itself. It places immense pressure on individuals to be everything for their partner and neglects the possibility of finding fulfillment through multiple connections.On the other hand, the idea of relational abundance challenges the notion of monogamy as the only valid relationship model. It suggests that multiple loving, consensual partnerships can coexist and complement one another, enriching individuals' lives and providing a broader range of emotional and intellectual support. In this sense, monogamy can indeed be seen as having one partner too many, as it restricts individuals from experiencing the full extent of their emotional and relational potential.It is essential to acknowledge that these concepts should be approached with consideration for individual circumstances, cultural contexts, and personal preferences. Not everyone may seek or desire multiple partnerships, and monogamy can still be a valid and fulfilling choice for many individuals. However, by expanding our understanding of relationships and questioning societal norms, we open up possibilities for personal growth and explore alternative paths to fulfillment.In conclusion, Oscar Wilde's quote on bigamy and monogamy serves as a thought-provoking statement that challenges conventional assumptions about relationships. It introduces the unexpected concept of relational abundance and prompts us to question the idealization of monogamy as the sole relationship model. By considering the limitations and complexities inherent in both bigamy and monogamy, we create space for exploring alternative perspectives, ultimately allowing individuals to craft relationships that truly align with their values and desires.