Love and institutions: compromise, traditions and rites in Asian societies (China, Korea, Japan, Nepal, India) and the Indian Ocean.

What does "love" mean in traditional societies? Many compromises are made in different Asian societies (China, Korea, Japan, Nepal, India) and the Indian Ocean, allowing people to navigate between individual expressions inspired by Western practices and local social norms. These institutions are manifest in the choice of spouse, the expression of love and the rites of passage. Romantic love may well be considered desirable, but it must nevertheless be in keeping with family traditions.