Can an arranged marriage ever work?

Editor’s Note: In many cultures, arranged marriage is a tradition where partners are chosen by parents or matchmakers. However, some people see it as a business deal that has little to do with love. Would you rather choose your own partner or have one found for you? Our Forum readers share their opinions.

inspired (UK)

What is wrong with arranged marriage? If my dad called me and said: “son, I’ve found a stunner for you why don’t you fly over and meet her?” - of course I would. He picked a pretty good woman for himself so why wouldn’t I trust him to pick one for me.

I know my dad pretty well, and he is about the same as me in many ways so I would trust him and give it a shot - if it didn’t work then we could always get divorced.

Anyway, people should listen to their parents sometimes. The world wouldn’t be so messed up if the kids of today had more respect - everyone seems to know best all the time now. It’s a sad thing.

Newlyweds pose with their marriage license at the marriage registration office of civil affairs bureau of Guangling district in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, August 13, 2013. The Qixi festival, or the Chinese Valentine's Day falls on August 13 this year. Many newlyweds choose this day to register their marriages. [Photo by Meng Delong/Asianewsphoto]