What is endogamy?

Endogamy refers to the practice of marrying within a specific group, such as a particular cultural, ethnic, or social class. This practice helps maintain certain cultural identities, traditions, or social structures by ensuring that marriages occur within a defined community. The focus on marrying within the group can reinforce social bonds, shared values, and cohesiveness among members of that group.

For example, in some cultures, individuals may be encouraged or expected to marry within their religious or ethnic community to preserve cultural heritage. This is distinct from exogamy, which involves marriage outside of one's group, thereby fostering connections between different groups. The other options do not accurately define endogamy; they either describe practices related to marriage structure or arrangements that are different from focusing on group boundaries.