G'day Eddie1, Thank you for your question. There are a lot of people who have arranged marriages. However, I don't think that they are good bacause I think that marriage between people who don't love each other is not a good idea. It often occurs in cultures where women are not nearly as powerful as men resulting in an imbalance in the relationship. Regards

Yes. I always wanted my parents to have control of my life.

Here's to a difference. I think they are a good idea. Ancient arranged marriages would involve no input from the groom/bride. - But in modern times, It's basically being smart and "researching". For example, whether you like it or not, your parents tend to know your character better (as they have lived with it for so long). They will be aware what kind of personality would be suited. - The families would know each other, or have known of each other, and would have been a step closer BEFORE the marriage. As opposed to finding out when their child is arranging their marriage themselves. This way, family bonds are also maintained, as the family generally aproves of your choice. - You still have the choice, and have a chance to get to know each other. - Many ordinary marriages are simply based on sexual feelings and "love". These often breakdown when you discover the true presonalities of the people. When you live with someone, you see a different side as opposed to dating someone. And you can deny it as many times as you want, but if you don't marry someone you love, if you are open, you can truely love them. - Culture-wise, (speaking for Indians), we were brought up in a different world. Dating and romance as it is known today, wasn't part of normal accepted social behaviour. So when exposed to this kind of world, we still tend to stick to our old ways of living. Thus arranged marriages tend to workout well. - My parents went through an arranged marriage. I think I might too. (That was the longest answer I've ever written)

No, people should be able to choose who they want to marriage without the politics.

Arranged marriage is not a good idea. Because, everyone has a right to choose his or her spouse independently. But if some body can not choose his or her choose independently even they could ask somebody to arrange their marriage.

If young people accept them they sooner become a part of their community so in that sense it makes them more responsible. Though I think I would have resisted I'm not sure but it would have made me a less selfish person.