Future Marriage Tiers
Year: 2024Category: Concept Design
The context of this project is based on a weak signal of the emerging of “Friendship Marriages” in Japan.Friendship marriages don't require adhering to gender norms - same-sex or non-binary couples are accepted. Living together or intimacy is also optional, with highly flexible, personalized contract terms. These are new marital unions formed not out of romantic love, but practical needs for companionship. A Tokyo-based marriage consultancy specializing in facilitating "friendship marriages” matches interested singles with compatible "friendship partners," assists in negotiating details, and formalizes the friendship marriage contract. The company believes this provides emotional solace and life companionship while maintaining autonomy and freedom. Although it’s currently shown as an emerging signal, there are strong drivers behind including but not limited to:
- Increasing individualism and focus on personal freedom/autonomy
- Changing attitudes towards traditional marriage norms
- Aging population seeking companionship in later years
- The economic function of marriage is declining, and people are pursuing a sense of emotional fulfillment
Therefore, we are speculating a future scenario of a more flexible lifestyle and connection under the increasing individualism with focusing on personal freedom in the marriage.
In 2050, the traditional concept of marriage has undergone a radical transformation. Society has moved away from the historical model of an immediate lifelong commitment, instead embracing a more fluid and customizable approach to deep human connections. This shift has given rise to a tiered marriage system, designed to accommodate varying levels of commitment and offer corresponding benefits and responsibilities.
The new marriage policy introduces four distinct tiers: Paper Marriage; Wood Marriage; Ceramic Marriage and Gold Marriage.
Each tier represents a different stage of commitment, allowing couples to progress through levels of intimacy and shared responsibility at their own pace. This innovative system recognizes the complex nature of modern relationships and provides a framework for unions to evolve organically over time.
The Paper Marriage is the initial stage where two or more individuals apply to form a family unit. Each member receives a paper ring and a ring box with four slots from the government. This stage grants legal recognition but with limited responsibilities, obligations, and social benefits. However, infidelity can lead to compensation claims from other members. If children are involved, their upbringing is monitored and guided by relevant government agencies. After one year, members can apply to upgrade to the next tier, and will be mandatory for families with children.
The Wood Marriage tier unlocks additional obligations, rights, and social benefits. 25% of each member's income becomes joint family property. Foreign members gain eligibility for permanent residency. Housing subsidies are provided. After four years, they can apply for the next upgrade.
The Ceramic Marriage tier brings further expanded obligations, rights, and benefits. 100% of income becomes joint family property, and tax benefits are granted.
After 25 years of marriage, the Gold Marriage tier is awarded with a government-issued precious metal ring, granting more extensive social benefits like additional tax exemptions.
- Increasing individualism and focus on personal freedom/autonomy
- Changing attitudes towards traditional marriage norms
- Aging population seeking companionship in later years
- The economic function of marriage is declining, and people are pursuing a sense of emotional fulfillment
