Conference explores pros and cons of marriage

Provocative questions swirling around the institution of marriage as it was, is and one day may be will be explored in a Nov. 9-10 conference sponsored by the University's Center for Children, Families and the Law.

Sociology, psychology and law experts representing a variety of viewpoints will discuss their recent research and innovative efforts to promote both traditional and non-traditional partnerships. Sessions will run from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 9 and from 8:45 a.m. to noon Nov. 10 in the Law School's Caplin Auditorium.

"Marriage is a private union that has become a political issue. The conference highlights a surprisingly controversial question: What is the role of the state in encouraging, or in some cases, permitting marriage?" asked center director and U.Va. psychology professor Robert Emery.

The public is invited to attend the conference, which costs $50. U.Va. faculty, staff and students are admitted free. For information, contact Kristine LaLonde at 924-4029 or lalonde@virginia.edu. Also see the Web site at http://www.virginia.edu/~ccfl/