Why do states feel the need to define marriage? If the nation decided same-sex marriages can now be recognized, why don’t the states follow suit?
To be clear, the U.S. didn't exactly decide that same-sex marriage is legal at the federal level, what the Supreme Court recently decided was that a federal law that prohibited validly married same-sex couples from receiving federal benefits granted to heterosexual married couples was unconstitut…
The Short Answer
To be clear, the U.S. didn't exactly decide that same-sex marriage is legal at the federal level, what the Supreme Court recently decided was that a federal law that prohibited validly married same-sex couples from receiving federal benefits granted to heterosexual married couples was unconstitutional because it discriminated against same-sex couples and violated the equal protection clause. There has been no determination at the federal level that same-sex marriage itself should be recognized across the country. Marriage is traditionally within the providence of the states rather than the federal government. That's why marriage licenses are issued by a particular state, not by the United States of America. Thus, while certain states have decided that same-sex couples ought to have their marriages recognized, other states have decided the opposite and are defining marriage as between a man and a woman. Edit: For clarity
Analysis
Key Concepts: Same-sex, marriage, federal
This explanation focuses on same-sex, marriage, federal and spans 143 words across 7 sentences. At 110% above the average Psychology explanation (68 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “To be clear, the U.S.” It then elaborates by explaining the root cause, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 7 connected points.
How This Compares in Psychology
Ranked #28 of 500 Psychology questions by answer depth (top 6%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why states feel the need to define marriage? if the nation decided same-sex marriages can now be recognized, why don't the states follow suit?
To be clear, the U.S. didn't exactly decide that same-sex marriage is legal at the federal level, what the Supreme Court recently decided was that a federal law that prohibited validly married same-sex couples from receiving federal benefits granted…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Psychology questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 143 words, ranked #28 of 500 Psychology questions by depth. The key concepts covered are same-sex, marriage, federal.
What approach does this answer take to explain states feel the need to define marriage? if the nation decid?
The explanation uses root cause analysis across 143 words. It is categorized under Psychology and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.