No Fault Divorce

Since 1970, all the states adopted no-fault divorce statutes, which have had the unexpected effect of producing dire financial conditions for many divorced women and their children. In this important study, economist and lawyer Allen Parkman shows how no-fault divorce has systematically operated against the interests of these women and children. With rare economic and legal insight, Parkman argues that by changing the grounds for divorce without changing the laws that define and allocate property at divorce, the legal system created substantial injustices. The key mistake, he suggests, was in accepting a definition of property that did not include the income-earning capacity--human capital--of the individuals involved. Using human capital theory, Parkman criticizes current divorce law and presents a framework for reform that would reduce the injustices introduced by no-fault divorce. He concludes that a thorough reform, however, may require the changing of the grounds for divorce to mutual consent. This book is essential reading for scholars, professionals, and, indeed, for anyone interested in the health and future of the family and the well-being of women in contemporary U.S. society.

Dissolution is a new word for divorce. In Dissolution, Riane Eisler discusses the fundamental societal and litigious changes of divorce from an action that was until recently an unacceptable social phenomenon to what is now commonplace. The book compares the old divorce laws based on marital fault with new "no-fault" divorce laws, an analysis of the laws and institutions of marriage and divorce, and alternatives (social and litigious) to marriage and divorce. Quotes about Dissolution: "Dissolution is must reading for every woman...whether she already believes in equal rights for all beings or belongs to the Phyllis Schlafly school of thought. Riane Eisler's work is the most definitive yet on the female species and her rights." – Rona Barrett, Good Morning America, ABC-TV "Only those of us who have gone through divorce without your book can fully appreciate its value. Its factual information gives strength. Its innate empathy comforts. Its totality is an integral part of the body of great feminist writings." – Frances Lear, President, Lear Purvis Walker & Co.

the author's Atlantic Monthly article "Dan Quayle Was Right" ignited a media debate on the effects of divorce that rages still. In this book she expands her argument, making it clear Americans need to strengthen their resolve with regard to divorce prevention, new ways of thinking about marriage, and a new consciousness about the meaning of committment. 240 pp. Author tour. Radio satellite tour. 60,000 print.

Based on sociological and economic analysis, Good Intentions Gone Awry presents valuable new insights into the impact of divorce on American society. Rather than blaming the deterioration in the quality of family life on the decline in so-called "family values," lawyer and economist Parkman argues that adults are responding to the incentives created by new opportunities and legal rules. Allen M. Parkman discusses the issues surrounding this sociological phenomena, proposes a reform program in response, and suggests steps that adults can take to create a durable and constructive family until such reforms occur.

Them Before Us has flipped the script on adult-centric attitudes toward marriage, parenthood, and reproductive technologies by framing these issues around a child’s right to be raised by both their mother and father. Set against a backdrop of sound research, the compelling stories throughout each chapter confirm that a child’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being depends on being loved by the two people responsible for their existence. It’s a paradigm shift that will impact the personal and the political, and reframe every marriage and family conversation across the globe. Them Before Us dispels many prevalent, harmful myths concerning children’s rights, such as: • Kids need only love and safety—moms and dads are optional. • Love makes a family—biology is irrelevant. • Marriage is about adults—it has nothing to do with kids. • Children are resilient and will “get over” divorce. • Studies show “no difference” in outcomes for kids with same-sex parents. • Sperm and egg donor kids are fortunate because they are so wanted. • Surrogacy is a great way to help wannabe parents have a baby. • Reproductive technologies are just like adoption. Are you tired of a culture that views adults as victims in family matters, when it’s clear that kids are the ones who truly pay the price? If so, we are your people, and this is your movement.