Family Matters

In 1947 sociologist and historian Carle Zimmerman compared the deterioration and ultimate disintegration of various cultures with the parallel in the decline of family unit in American. His study identified specific patterns of behavior that typified the final stages of the disintegration of each culture. Just before each culture fell into total disarray, certain conditions became prominent Dr. Zimmerman traced those elements that led to the demise of the family unit There are eleven in all and among the eleven were:

• Increase and rapid, easy, “causeless” divorce (Guilty and innocent party theory became a pure fictions.)
• Deceased number of children, population decay, and increased public disrespect for parents and parenthood.
• Elimination of the real meaning of the marriage ceremony.
• Popularity of pessimistic doctrines about the early heros.
• Breaking down of most inhibitions against adultery.
• Revolts of youth against parents so that parenthood became more and more difficult for those who did try to raise children.
• Rapid rise and spread of juvenile delinquency.
• Common acceptance of all forms of sex perversions.

So how is the American family doing?


Carle C Zimmerman, Family and Civilization (New York, Harper & Brothers, 1947 pp. 776-777