Mirror editor discusses polygamy in Thailand
Among the many concepts of romantic relationships are “monogamy” and “polygamy”. Despite the existence of polyamorous individuals in the world, it seems that relationships wherein someone is committed to just one partner seems to be the most widely practiced.
Hence, it’s no surprise as to why netizens were quick to fire at one of Mirror‘s recent posts, which speaks about how polygamy is better than monogamy.
Here’s what one of the editors from the publication said about the two concepts, as well as counterarguments made by netizens.
More stories to read about:
- My LDR almost ended because of Covid-19
- Woman braves flood to save husband’s Gundam toy
- Grandpa attends grandson’s same-sex wedding
Mirror’s editor believes polygamy leads to safe sex
Mirror is Thai media company that produces content about beauty, lifestyle and perspectives that are aimed to empower women. One of their posts on Facebook from 17th June 2021 includes an interview with one of the editors, who says that monogamy isn’t natural. She supports the polyamorous way of life.
The post saying, “Monogamy isn’t natural to human beings. A talk with the editor who doesn’t live life based solely on monogamy.”
Image credit: @MirrorThailandOfficial
The post consists of a series of questions about relationships and answers from the unnamed editor.
According to the editor, the problem with monogamy is that it led to the spread of HIV in the past. She explained that people engaged in unprotected sex to prove their fidelity, which she claims was motivated by ideas stemming from monogamy.
To prevent unprotected sex – which is based on beliefs about fidelity – she encourages people to accept the polyamorous nature of humans so they would turn to “safer” contraceptive methods. For example, wearing condoms instead of relying solely on birth control pills.
Advocating for polygamy in Thailand
The editor of Mirror also believes that monogamy is just a concept instilled in people to keep the society in order, and isn’t a quality that is naturally possessed by humans.
Not only does she see polygamy as a part of human nature, but it is also an opportunity for us to discover who we are and what we like by opening ourselves up to different people. She also says that it’s still important to care about your partner’s feelings, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you always have to tell them about the other person.
The editor concluded that ultimately, these are just ideas that she believes. She acknowledges how monogamy is still a major part of the culture in Thailand and that it is what people are accustomed to.
Unhappy voices from the netizens
Mirror’s attempt to present the other side of the coin for concepts like monogamy and polygamy seems to have backfired, as many netizens voiced disapproval towards the editor’s unpopular opinions.
Screenshot: @MirrorThailandOfficial
Translation: I couldn’t find any part that has a solid argument.
Many have expressed that they find the article to be illogical and lacking a single point where they feel like they could believe in.
This netizen, who claims that they’ve been in a polyamorous relationship, even spoke about how polygamy was misrepresented.
Screenshot: @MirrorThailandOfficial
Translation: From someone who has experienced a polyamorous relationship. For it to be a polyamorous relationship, both parties have to know and agree in the beginning. If you’ve decided with your partner to be committed to only each other, then sleeping with others is wrong and is cheating. Don’t mix it with polygamy, they’re totally different things.
Some resorted to hilarious angles to comment on the post.
Screenshot: @MirrorThailandOfficial
Translation: Me, who works with HIV. *Meme*
Yet, a few netizens have pointed out the editor’s “freedom of thought”. Although, they also said that they’ll just stick to what they believe in.
Screenshot: @MirrorThailandOfficial
Translation: Freedom of thought means there is no right or wrong, although I believe some people can have a really bad logic. Thank you for giving something for people to drama about. Lol. Please allow me to agree to disagree.
Mirror Thailand sparks conversations around polygamy
Despite Mirror Thailand’s ill-received talk about the concepts of monogamy and polygamy, they still deserve some recognition for picking up a sensitive topic and leading it into a pool of discussion.
After all, people do have the right to discover for themselves what they want to believe in. Let’s hope that further discussions continue productively and respectfully.
Whilst we’re on the topic, what are your thoughts on monogamy and polygamy? Share with us in the comments below.
Stories to smile about:
- Thai boys ride elephant to school
- Students choose their own lunches in school project
- Mechanic finds and returns money to car owner
Cover images adapted from (L-R): @MirrorThailandOfficial, Getty Images via Brides (Image is used for illustration purposes only)
Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.