Why does polygamy exist?

Answer 1

Polygamy exists for many reasons. For most polygamists worldwide, it is simply a part of the culture. Asking this question to them might be like asking you why you wear clothes. It's simply something that they do.

Others are polygamists for religious reasons. Many people believe that God allows and/or commands them to practice polygamy or they are trying to emulate the life of an Old Testament prophet, many of whom had multiple wives.

Another reason is lack of marriageable men. Sometimes a single woman chooses to be in a relationship with a married man rather than be single. They feel it is better to share a husband than have no husband at all.

A final reason is male greed. Some men want to be surrounded by women.