Marriage systems refer to the various ways societies organize and understand the institution of marriage. These systems can include monogamy, where one person is married to one partner, and polygamy, which involves having multiple spouses. Within polygamy, there are subtypes like polygyny (one man with multiple wives) and polyandry (one woman with multiple husbands). Cultural norms, religious beliefs, and legal frameworks often shape these marriage systems. For example, in some cultures, arranged marriages are common, while in others, individuals choose their partners based on love. Understanding these systems helps to appreciate the diversity of human relationships across different societies.