How Monogamous Are Humans: For centuries, we've been taught that monogamy is essential for a happy and healthy relationship. But let's find out just how monogamous humans are.

How monogamous are humans?

Love stories always teach us that life is complete when you find a true partner. Most weddings, love stories, and romantic films portray this. But do humans really spend their entire lives with just one partner? A new study from Cambridge University has revealed surprising data on human monogamy, or the habit of remaining with one partner for life. Let's find out. 

A habit of love or a rule of society?

We always think that a person in love spends their entire life with one partner. Stories like Romeo and Juliet and Heer and Ranjha teach us this. Marriage vows of lifelong togetherness also confirm this trust. But are these just social ideals, or is this really human nature?

The scale of human monogamy

Cambridge University researcher Mark Dyble conducted extensive research on monogamy in humans and animals. He looked at the number of siblings among offspring in a population. Species that produced more siblings were considered more monogamous. This method compared humans, other animals, and mammals.

What is the rank of humans in the monogamy league?

Humans came in seventh place in this study. This means that we don't stick to one partner for life, but we're not completely non-monogamous either. Humans are less monogamous than Eurasian beavers, but more so than meerkats, red foxes, and lar gibbons. Topping the list is the California deer mouse, which stays with the same partner for life.

The real reason for monogamy

Dyble says that the reason for monogamy in humans isn't just romance. The real reason is the safety and upbringing of children. Staying with the same partner for a long time keeps children safe, provides them with resources, and strengthens the family. Therefore, in addition to love, it's also a practical strategy. 

Human relationships are not just romance.

We think that love is the reason for monogamy, but the truth is that human relationships don't last solely because of love. Relationships between family, friends, relatives, and society—these are what sustain human life. Monogamy has made humans cooperative, intelligent, and social creatures.

From films and stories to reality

Movies and books certainly give us the idea of ​​true love and monogamy, but in the real world, humans are only as monogamous as life and social needs allow. Love, belonging, and trust are essential, but the safety of children and society also come into play.

Humans and other animals

The research examined monogamy in animals other than humans. Animals like the African wild dog and the mole rat were found to be more monogamous than humans. The least monogamous were the Soay sheep and some monkey species. This suggests that humans are not solely designed for a single partner.