Even if you remove the religious aspect from consideration, it ignores the primary benefit for monogamy: to provide a more stable environment for procreation and rearing of young.
Otherwise why not just do what Leo does: catch at 18, release at 25?
Well the religious aspect is what turned it from "serial monogamy" into "committed." From simply being together until it no longer benefits, into a sealed deal until death.
Because if it was only for raising young, there would be little point at remaining together past 55~ when nearly all possible children are fully grown.
That's the problem of turning a religious ceremony into a government label and romantic gesture.
It hollows it out into something people do without any real thought about why they do it, beyond bureaucratic benefits.
Even if you remove the religious aspect from consideration, it ignores the primary benefit for monogamy: to provide a more stable environment for procreation and rearing of young.
Otherwise why not just do what Leo does: catch at 18, release at 25?
Well the religious aspect is what turned it from "serial monogamy" into "committed." From simply being together until it no longer benefits, into a sealed deal until death.
Because if it was only for raising young, there would be little point at remaining together past 55~ when nearly all possible children are fully grown.