Takes readers on a fascinating trek through history, pre-history and societies, large and small, from around the world to comment on the roots and future of the Western family. From the Mangaians of Polynesia, who encouraged "promiscuous" pre-marital sex, to the regimented separation of the sexes in ancient Sparta; from the Old Testament's injunctions to procreate, to Christianity's celebration of virginity; from the Inuit's devotion to children, to medieval Europe's indifference to the needs of babies, the book brings to light not only the vast differences in human behavior but also the surprising commonalities among diverse peoples. An entertaining blend of anthropology and social history.