Meaning: The quote "With children no longer the universally accepted reason for marriage, marriages are going to have to exist on their own merits" by Eleanor Holmes Norton, a well-known American politician and delegate to the United States House of Representatives, touches upon the evolving nature of marriage and the shifting societal attitudes towards the institution. In the past, the primary or even sole reason for many marriages was the desire to have and raise children. However, as societal norms and expectations change, the notion of marriage purely for procreation has become less prevalent, leading to a reevaluation of the purpose and value of marriage.

The quote suggests that in the absence of children being the sole or primary reason for marriage, the institution of marriage must stand on its own merits. This implies that marriages should be based on the strength of the relationship between the partners, their commitment to each other, and the mutual benefits and value that the union brings to their lives. In other words, the quote underscores the idea that marriages should not be solely defined by the presence or absence of children, but rather by the quality of the partnership and the fulfillment it brings to the individuals involved.

One interpretation of this quote is that it reflects a contemporary perspective on marriage that acknowledges the evolving dynamics of relationships and the diversity of reasons for entering into a marital union. In today's society, individuals may choose to marry for companionship, emotional support, shared values, legal and financial benefits, or simply for the love and commitment they share with their partner. Therefore, the quote suggests that marriages should be valued and sustained based on the intrinsic merits of the relationship itself, rather than external factors such as societal expectations or traditional norms.

Additionally, the quote highlights the shifting cultural and social landscape in which the institution of marriage exists. As societal attitudes become more inclusive and diverse, the traditional roles and expectations associated with marriage have evolved. This evolution has led to a broader recognition of the various forms and expressions of partnership, as well as a greater emphasis on the autonomy and agency of individuals in choosing the type of relationships that best suit their needs and desires.

Moreover, the quote also alludes to the idea that the purpose of marriage is not static and can be redefined based on the values and priorities of the individuals involved. As such, the quote encourages a reexamination of the meaning and significance of marriage in contemporary society, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, equality, and partnership in sustaining healthy and fulfilling relationships.

In conclusion, Eleanor Holmes Norton's quote captures the changing dynamics of marriage and the evolving societal attitudes towards the institution. It encourages a reevaluation of the purpose and value of marriage in the absence of traditional reasons such as procreation, highlighting the importance of the intrinsic merits of the relationship itself. Ultimately, the quote reflects a contemporary perspective that emphasizes the autonomy, diversity, and evolving nature of marital relationships in today's society.