Women who have made such decisions have typically been ostracized from society. Women's freedom of choice has been expanding considerably due to Western influences. The popular Western practice of blind dating has shown its face in many countries. Chinese junior Tiffany Lin explains that when she is old enough to date, her parents will choose her dates, though she will not be forced to marry them. My cousins, though, have had people flown across the country, just so they could meet.
Parental approval is key in Eastern cultures, where families tend to be very tight-knit.
Indian senior Venkat Vishwanathan states that he personally does not believe in arranged marriages and that his parents understand that he will be exposed to American values, to many of which he will adhere. Regardless of how much he changes though, Vishwanathan will only bring home a wife who meets his parents' expectations. Someone who will respect them and uphold their fundamental values. In a society where independence and individual freedoms are celebrated, and where true love is highly prized, the ancient tradition of arranged marriages is a misunderstood concept. Time and time again, I have been hesitant to bring up the fact that my parents' wedding was arranged.