Review
Marriage as an ethical and social relationship is to reside outside the state's reach. Metz convincingly defends this position by using traditional liberal values alongside feminist analyses to critique and reject justifications of 'established' marriage found in Locke, Mill, Susan Moller Okin, and US legal opinions. (
Choice )
Tamara Metz has written an important book that makes a provocative and ultimately persuasive argument for getting the state out of the marriage business. . . . I am very impressed with the persuasiveness of Metz's overarching argument and with the respectful and non-dismissive way in which she addresses the normative concerns of religious people, as well as the insights of feminist theorists. This book definitely makes a contribution to the literature on marriage, and it deserves a wide reading. (R. Claire Snyder-Hall
Law and Politics Book Review )
This lucid, thoughtful, and cogently argued book makes a significant contribution to the literature on marriage. It will advance debates over marriage law beyond the question of which form of marriage the state should recognize to the deeper question of why the state should recognize marriage at all. Specialists in social and political philosophy, feminist philosophy, and the history of liberal thought will profit from it, but it is also accessible to the student or general reader. (Elizabeth Brake
Philosophy in Review )
Metz's focus on the meaning side of marriage provides a timely guide to understanding contemporary marriage debates. . . . Her book should be of interest to the wider audience of readers who feel some stake in the ongoing marriage debates. (Linda McClain
Political Science Quarterly )
Untying the Knot is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the current struggles over the nature, meaning, and significance of marriage, and it borders on being a must-read for anyone with a serious interest in the relationship between liberalism and marriage. (Eric M. Cave
Social Theory and Practice )
[T]his book . . . is a forceful volley that effectively changes the terms of the marriage debate, forcing us to argue about fundamental assumptions as well as implications. (Michele Pridmore-Brown
European Legacy )
An obvious strength of this work is Metz's clarity of argument, both in terms of her careful and considered analysis and her exceptionally clear writing style. Her prose is refreshingly enjoyable to read, and spells out her case at a measured pace. Whether or not you agree with the argument Metz presents, you will understand it. (Amy Watson
LSE Politics and Policy blog )
From the Inside Flap
"In clear and jargon-free writing, Tamara Metz makes a persuasive case for the separation of marriage and the state. Readers who pick up this book to inform themselves about the same-sex marriage debate will be led to wonder why the state involves itself in marriage at all."--Shelley Burtt, author of Virtue Transformed
"This provocative and timely book makes an important contribution to our understanding of both liberal political theory and what marriage law should be. The writing is clear, succinct, and a pleasure to read. This book is essential reading for everyone interested in the family, political theory, public policy, or law."--Mary Lyndon Shanley, Vassar College
