ABSTRACT
This chapter considers it first on its biological basis, as a sex-related group for the purpose of rearing young; and the effect of conditions upon it should be measured primarily by this purpose. The family has its origin in the genetic process of reproduction; but is modified continually by telic forces. The material forms of home life, the character of its structure and functions depend upon the relation of the members of the family. The initial condition of ownership, even without service, reacts unfavorably upon the kind of marriage most desired. When the ownership is no longer that of true slavery but enters the contract stage, when marriage becomes an economic relation, then indeed is it degraded. In America today the man is able to hire other women to wait upon him; but his wife is merely raised to the position of a sort of "section-boss;" she still manages the service of the house for him.
