In this episode of Analyzing Finance with Nick, we explore the complex relationship between social class and marriage. Nick delves deep into the historical shift in marriage trends from the 1960s to the 2010s, highlighting how marriage has transformed from a universal rite of passage to a luxury brand marker. He discusses how different social classes view and approach marriage, the economic and social factors driving the decline in marriage rates, and the implications for social mobility and community stability. Drawing from Charles Murray's 'Coming Apart,' Nick provides a detailed analysis of marriage trends across different socioeconomic groups, from the dependent class to the old money elite, examining motivations, financial considerations, and societal impacts. Join us as we take a comprehensive look at how marriage perpetuates class differences and what that means for societal cohesion and trust.

00:00 Introduction: The Evolution of Weddings

00:17 Exploring Social Class and Marriage

01:09 Historical Shifts in Marriage Trends

02:04 Economic and Class Forces Impacting Marriage

05:43 The Cost of Weddings and Its Impact

10:05 Marriage Dynamics Among the Dependent Class

11:20 Working and Precarious Class Marriage Trends

14:59 Middle Class Marriage Stability

16:53 Independent Professional Class Partnerships

20:01 Marriage in the Elite Classes

30:14 Conclusion: Class, Marriage, and Society