Have you ever wondered if it’s legal to marry your cousin? It’s a common question, and many people are curious about the practice. While it may seem odd to some, marriage between cousins—also called consanguineous marriage—is a topic with a lot of myths, misconceptions, and legal nuances.
This article breaks down the history, legality, and cultural views surrounding cousin marriages, focusing on the specific laws in West Virginia.
The Basics of Cousin Marriage
First, let’s define some terms.
- First cousins share grandparents.
- Second cousins share great-grandparents.
In some places, cousins may be related through marriage or adoption, and different rules might apply to those situations.
Is It Illegal to Marry Your Cousin in West Virginia?
No, it’s not illegal to marry your cousin in West Virginia. In fact, marriage between second cousins is legal in every state, including West Virginia. As for first cousins, it’s allowed in 27 states, including West Virginia, without restrictions. However, some states have specific rules, like age requirements or genetic testing.
For example, in West Virginia, you can marry your first cousin without any additional conditions. There are no state laws preventing it.
How Common is Cousin Marriage?
Cousin marriage is not very common in the U.S., but it is legal in some places. Around 0.2% of marriages in the U.S. are between cousins, which may seem like a small number. However, cousin marriage is much more common in other parts of the world.
In places like Pakistan, India, and Turkey, cousin marriages can make up to 10% of marriages. Cultural practices, family ties, and traditions often influence these numbers. In some cultures, cousins are not raised together and may not feel the same sense of closeness, so cousin marriage isn’t seen as taboo.
Health Concerns and the ‘Ick Factor’
The main reason many people feel uncomfortable with cousin marriage is the belief that it’s similar to incest or that it carries genetic risks. While it’s true that cousins share around 12.5% of their DNA, research has shown that the risks for genetic diseases in children born to cousins are no higher than the risks for children born to unrelated individuals.
Most health experts agree that the risks of cousin marriage are often exaggerated. In fact, studies like the one published in Popular Science have found that marrying a cousin is not harmful to your children’s health as long as there are no other genetic concerns.
Why Is Cousin Marriage Controversial?
Cousin marriage has been controversial for a long time, particularly in the U.S. and Europe. In the U.S., it was not until the Civil War that states began passing laws regulating cousin marriage. Kansas was the first state to ban cousin marriage in 1858.
In Europe, the Catholic Church played a significant role in pushing against cousin marriages during the Middle Ages, partly for financial reasons. Wealthy families often kept their riches within the family through cousin marriage, which the Church saw as a threat to its own wealth and power. Over time, this led to widespread cultural opposition to cousin marriages.
Religious views also influence this practice, with different faiths interpreting marriage laws in various ways. The Catholic Church, for example, has strict rules regarding consanguinity (blood relations), while other religions might have more lenient views.
Notable Examples of Cousin Marriages
Despite the controversy, there have been famous examples of cousin marriages:
- Charles Darwin, the famous naturalist, married his first cousin, Emma Wedgwood.
- Albert Einstein, the renowned physicist, married his first cousin, Elsa Einstein.
These well-known figures demonstrate that cousin marriage is not a new or unusual practice.
States Where Cousin Marriage Is Legal
In the U.S., second cousins can legally marry in all 50 states, including West Virginia. As for first cousins, marriage is allowed in 27 states, either with no restrictions or with certain conditions.
Here’s a breakdown:
First Cousin Marriage: Legal with No Restrictions
- West Virginia
- California
- Florida
- New York
- Virginia
- South Carolina
- Vermont
First Cousin Marriage: Legal with Some Restrictions
- Arizona (if 65 or older, or if one partner is infertile)
- Illinois (if 50 or older, or if one partner is infertile)
- Maine (requires genetic testing)
- Mississippi (for cousins through adoption)
In other states, first cousin marriage is prohibited.
Should You Marry Your Cousin?
While it’s legal to marry your cousin in West Virginia and many other states, you should still think carefully about it. Consider any health risks, family reactions, and social stigma. While the risks are minimal from a biological standpoint, some people may still feel uncomfortable due to cultural or religious reasons.
If you are seriously considering marrying your cousin, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss any potential genetic concerns.
In West Virginia, as well as in many other states, marriage between cousins is legal. While cousin marriage may not be common in the U.S., it’s much more accepted in other parts of the world. Despite the controversies and taboos, marrying a cousin is not inherently harmful, especially when both parties are aware of the potential risks.
As always, it’s essential to understand the laws in your state and consider your personal and family situation before making a decision. For more information on marriage laws, you can contact your local county clerk’s office.
